Exporters Eastern Cape has acknowledged the announcement that Volkswagen Group Africa Chairperson and Managing Director Martina Biene will leave the company to take up a new assignment as Board Member for Sales and Marketing for Škoda Auto.
Biene, who was the first female Managing Director at VWGA, served in the position for four years and made a significant contribution to the company, Nelson Mandela Bay and the wider automotive industry.
A significant period for Volkswagen Group Africa
During Biene’s tenure, the VWGA plant in Kariega achieved an all-time production record of 167 084 vehicles in 2024.
The locally built Polo remains one of the most exported vehicles from the city’s ports. The plant will soon also begin exporting its new model, the Tengo, to African markets.
The start of production for the Tengo was brought forward as a result of the plant’s preparedness. Production was also preceded by a R4 billion investment in the Kariega plant, announced in 2024.
Leadership beyond VWGA
As a business leader in Nelson Mandela Bay, Biene led by example.
Her work outside VWGA included her involvement with the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber and her tenure as President of the African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM).
These roles gave her a platform to lobby for changes benefiting VWGA, the metro’s business community and the automotive industry at large.
Exporters Eastern Cape also worked closely with Biene and her team through VWGA’s involvement with the organisation and the broader local business community.
Exporters Eastern Cape pays tribute
“On behalf of Exporters Eastern Cape, I would like to thank Martina for her contribution to Nelson Mandela Bay in the past four years,” said Quintin Levey, Exporters Eastern Cape Chairman.
“Organisations are built on more than products and performance. They are built on people, relationships and a lasting commitment to excellence. Martina’s passion for the Bay and for Volkswagen Group Africa will have a lasting impact.
“I wish her all the best in her next role, and we also look forward to welcoming her successor, Christiane Zorn, and supporting her journey as the next leader of Volkswagen Group Africa.”
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