BMW Appoints Milan Nedeljković as New CEO

BMW has announced a major leadership shift as its supervisory board named Milan Nedeljković the new CEO, replacing long-serving chief Oliver Zipse. The transition comes at a time when the global automotive sector is undergoing rapid transformation, and BMW faces tough competition in key markets such as China and the United States.

Nedeljković will officially assume the top post on May 14 next year, marking the beginning of a new strategic chapter for the iconic German automaker. His mandate will run until 2031, giving him a long runway to steer BMW through the next wave of electric and digital innovation.

Why BMW Needed a Fresh Leadership Shift

In recent years, BMW has struggled to maintain momentum amid intensifying competition from Chinese EV manufacturers, rising costs, and new tariffs in the U.S. market. These pressures led the company to cut its 2025 earnings forecast, signaling a challenging short-term outlook.

To regain its footing, BMW is betting heavily on its next-generation lineup, especially the all-electric “Neue Klasse” models, expected to become a key driver of growth from 2026 onwards. This fresh leadership is seen as crucial to executing that transition smoothly.

Who Is Milan Nedeljković?

Milan Nedeljković, 56, is not a newcomer to the BMW family. Having joined the company in 1993, he has built a distinguished three-decade career shaped by deep technical expertise and global production leadership.

Early Life and Education

Born in Serbia, Nedeljković pursued mechanical engineering in Germany and furthered his studies at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). His strong engineering background has often been highlighted as one of his biggest strengths.

Career Journey at BMW

Over the years, Nedeljković has taken on several key roles:

• Managed the paint shop at BMW’s MINI plant in Oxford
• Served as Managing Director of BMW’s Munich plant
• Joined the management board in 2019
• Led global production, especially during BMW’s crucial push toward electric mobility

His ability to streamline manufacturing systems and oversee global plant operations positioned him as a natural choice to take over the CEO role.

Industry Recognition

BMW supervisory board chair Nicolas Peter praised Nedeljković for his leadership style, noting that he “unites people and motivates them to achieve peak performance.” Analysts, including Pal Skirta of Metzler, also observed that his broad experience across BMW sites makes him well-prepared to handle the challenges ahead.

What Happens to Outgoing CEO Oliver Zipse?

Oliver Zipse, 61, has been a defining figure in BMW’s modern era. After 35 years with the company, Zipse will step down in May 2026, following a contract extension that went beyond the usual retirement age.

During his tenure, Zipse played a pivotal role in:

• Steering BMW through the COVID-19 pandemic
• Strengthening supply chains during global disruptions
• Laying the foundation for the upcoming Neue Klasse EV architecture

He is expected to join the Airbus Board of Directors, continuing his influence in Europe’s strategic industries.

Nicolas Peter credited Zipse with being the “driving force behind the Neue Klasse,” acknowledging his significant contribution to BMW’s long-term electric roadmap.

What This Leadership Change Means for BMW’s Future

The appointment of Milan Nedeljković comes at a decisive moment:

• The EV market is becoming fiercer, especially with Chinese brands scaling aggressively.
• High U.S. tariffs pose new hurdles for German automakers.
• Consumer expectations are rapidly shifting toward software-driven, environmentally friendly vehicles.

Nedeljković’s deep production expertise is expected to help BMW optimize costs, improve manufacturing flexibility, and accelerate EV development.

As BMW enters 2026 with the launch of its Neue Klasse models, the company hopes this leadership transition will enable it to reclaim stronger global market positioning.