Katrin Adt has joined Renault Group as the new CEO of the Dacia brand, succeeding Denis Le Vot, who is departing from the company. Previously serving as VP at Mercedes, Katrin Adt will also become a member of the Leadership Team at Renault Group.
In the new organizational structure, she will report to Fabrice Cambolive, Renault Group’s Chief Growth Officer.
The new CEO has been working throughout the typical August break to appoint new leaders as Renault navigates challenges such as subdued demand in Europe and the increasing presence of Chinese manufacturers like BYD Co. In July, the company revised its profitability forecast downward due to heightened competition and a declining van market.
Le Vot, recognized for increasing market share at Dacia, has opted to leave Renault.
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The company has appointed longstanding employee Philippe Brunet as chief technology officer to enhance innovation within the group. Another veteran of Renault, Anthony Plouvier, will take over as procurement chief from Provost.
“Under Denis' guidance, the Dacia brand has transformed into a robust brand with an appealing product range, attracting a more extensive customer base. On behalf of Renault Group, I would like to thank Denis for his numerous contributions over the years. I am pleased to welcome Katrin Adt, whose deep industry experience will be an invaluable asset for Dacia,” stated François Provost, CEO of Renault Group.
“We are thrilled to have Katrin at the helm of Dacia. Her vast knowledge and expertise in business development will help us maintain the brand's progress and, most importantly, to face the next challenge together: electrifying the Dacia product lineup.
With the brand now firmly established on the European retail market podium, we must position it as a reference point for electrified vehicles,” commented Fabrice Cambolive, Chief Growth Officer of Renault Group.
DACIA, now acknowledged as the go-to brand for affordable mobility, is rapidly expanding, especially with the introduction of its BIGSTER C-segment SUV.
Katrin Adt brings nearly 26 years of experience in the automotive sector, having worked with Daimler and Mercedes-Benz.
With a legal background, she has occupied various senior roles, including CEO of Mercedes-Benz in Luxembourg, VP of Human Resources Development at Daimler, CEO of the Smart brand, and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Own Retail Europe.
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Most recently, she led the Corporate Audit at Mercedes-Benz. Her career has largely centered on sales and retail, during which she oversaw several pivotal transformations, such as converting Smart into a fully electric brand. Katrin is also deeply dedicated to championing diversity and mentoring women in technology.