Mercedes-Benz Group has named Paul Gao to the newly created position of chief strategy officer, effective 1 July, 2022.

Gao, who has decades of experience in the auto sector, was most recently a senior partner at McKinsey & Company in Hong Kong, serving both Chinese and global industry clients.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

With his international background he will steer all aspects of the Mercedes-Benz strategy. A central part of the role will be to incorporate the specific requirements and insights of key Asian markets into strategic business decisions. Gao will report directly to chief executive, Ola Kaellenius.

“Paul is an excellent addition to our team: a proven strategist with exceptional analytical skills who has also demonstrated the ability to successfully deploy his ideas. He has close to 30 years of auto industry experience and essential know how about China and other Asian growth markets,” Kaellenius said.

Since the completion of studies in the United States and China, Gao has worked for leading professional service firms in America and Asia, including almost 20 years with McKinsey & Company advising leading multinational and Chinese automotive companies. He has deep expertise in corporate and business unit strategy, sales and marketing strategy, joint ventures and strategic partnerships, cross-border transactions, organisational development and product strategy with a focus on e-mobility.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Auto Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Auto Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving automotive industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now