Chris Brownridge has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of BMW Group UK, effective 01 July, 2021.

Brownridge, formerly Sales Director of BMW, replaces the retiring Graeme Grieve after a worldwide career spanning more than 30 years with the BMW Group.

Taking over the former role occupied by Brownridge is Julian Jenkins, who moves from his current appointment as Rolls-Royce Regional Director for the UK, EU, Russia and Central Asia.

Jean-Philippe Parain, Head of Customers, Brands and Sales for Europe commented:

“We would all like to thank Graeme for his hard work and dedication and the drive he has brought to his numerous roles over many years. As the UK Chief Executive officer since 2014, he has overseen the company at a time when there has been significant change in the motor industry, but he has ensured that we have strengthened the position of both the BMW and MINI brands. We wish him a very happy and fulfilling retirement. Chris Brownridge is an exceptional successor and I know that he will build on the great work that Graeme has done over the years.”

Chris Brownridge has extensive experience with BMW, which includes the fleet market, rising swiftly from National Corporate Sales Manager to General Manager of Corporate Sales. More recently he was MINI Regional Director for UK and Ireland, prior to his January 2018 appointment as BMW UK Sales Director.

On his succession to the CEO post, Brownridge said: “I am truly proud and honoured to be taking over this role from Graeme. We have a high performance team in place and an impressive array of models coming to the market in the near future and beyond. It’s a pivotal time for the entire industry as we become ever-more electrified and, as a sustainability leader, BMW Group is well placed to make the most of this opportunity. I am looking forward to leading the organisation at such an exciting time.”

The BMW Group in the UK comprises four brands: BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad.