Guenter Behringer
Automotive Strategy Executive | Premium & Luxury Brands | CEE & Middle East Markets | VIP Client Expert | Consultant | Global IT Talent Partner
30 yrs experience · Munich, Germany · <10 hrs/week
About
Automotive executive with 30+ years of international leadership experience in premium and luxury brands across Europe, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe/CIS. I have held strategic roles at Audi, Bentley, and Lamborghini, focusing on premium brand positioning, strategic market development, and VIP client engagement at the highest level. My core expertise includes launching new markets, scaling dealer networks, designing high-impact customer experiences for HNWIs, and integrating retail and fleet strategies across emerging and growth markets. Today, I advise companies on international expansion, brand strategy, and executive-level customer excellence — while also leading tech talent initiatives as Managing Partner in global recruitment. I'm co-founder of the Premium Leaders Club, a senior executive network fostering innovation and cross-sector leadership. Driven by transformation, customer excellence, and building trusted partnerships in premium and dynamic global markets. Key Focus Areas: Strategic Market Development | Premium Automotive | Luxury Brand Strategy | Customer Experience Design | Emerging Markets | C-Level Advisory | Talent Acquisition | Business Growth | High-Net-Worth Clients | Cross-Regional Leadership
Skills
Experience
- Managing Partner & Co-Owner – Global IT & Tech Recruiting · Onity_2023-05-01 –
• Co-owner and strategic lead at a fast-growing international tech recruiting firm. • Specializing in cross-border placement of IT specialists for digital transformation initiatives. • Supporting premium clients in the DACH and EMEA regions with high-impact talent strategies. • Bridging critical skill gaps in competitive markets through targeted global sourcing.
- Advisory Board Member & Co-Founder · Premium Leaders Club2021-01-01 –
• Co-founded a high-level executive network connecting business leaders across the DACH region. • Shaped strategic direction, expanded C-level membership, and established long-term partnerships with premium business stakeholders. • Designed exclusive formats and experiences for senior executives to foster trust-based, cross-sector dialogue. • Enabled strategic exchange among C-level peers across innovation-driven industries and high-growth markets.
- Director VIP Management and Sales · AUDI AG2017-01-01 – 2022-01-01
• Developed and led AUDI AG’s global VIP strategy, engaging high-profile clients, brand ambassadors, and HNWIs through tailored experiences and relationship excellence. • Created and delivered “money-can’t-buy” brand experiences, including curated events, factory previews, high-end handovers, and lifestyle activations. • Integrated VIP programs with strategic fleet sales to unlock commercial value in premium customer segments. • Acted as internal brand ambassador to ensure global consistency in high-end customer positioning. • Delivered high-impact initiatives such as Audi R8 Collectors Day (38 coordinated handovers), Berlinale red carpet activations, and curated driving events. • Forged strategic alliances with premium hospitality and retail partners (e.g., Bucherer) to drive co-branded customer access and loyalty. • Launched pilot programs like Audi e-tron VIP car sharing on Sylt, targeting niche mobility needs in affluent markets. • Established an active cross-industry VIP community to enhance brand engagement and emotional affinity.
- Director Sales to Authorities and Diplomats · AUDI AG2014-01-01 – 2016-01-01
• Directed global sales operations for government institutions, diplomatic missions, and international organizations. • Developed and delivered customized, protocol-compliant vehicle solutions aligned with high-security and ceremonial requirements. • Established and managed trusted relationships with decision-makers in public sector, ensuring brand consistency and discretion. • Supported Audi’s global brand visibility through official vehicle deliveries and mobility-related projects at a diplomatic level.
- Director of Premium and Luxury Brands · Volkswagen Group Rus2010-01-01 – 2013-01-01
• Directed strategy and sales operations for Audi, Bentley, and Lamborghini in the Russian market. • Developed market-specific growth strategies and brand elevation campaigns in the ultra-luxury segment. • Established high-performance dealer networks and launched new premium retail formats. • Developed loyalty programs and tailored customer journeys for HNWIs and UHNWI clientele. • Strengthened market share and desirability in a highly competitive luxury market.
- Regional Director Central and Eastern Europe · AUDI AG1999-01-01 – 2009-01-01
• Managed strategic business development across 26 countries in Central and Eastern Europe, including Russia and key emerging markets. • Built and scaled importer and dealer networks in high-growth economies. • Developed and implemented regional go-to-market strategies, pricing models, and launch campaigns. • Positioned Audi as the leading premium brand in multiple CEE countries through market-specific branding and commercial excellence.
- Sales Director Middle East · AUDI AG1996-01-01 – 1998-01-01
• Led Audi’s business operations and growth strategy across all GCC countries (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman). • Established the Audi Regional Office in Dubai as a central platform for brand presence, training, and business governance. • Built strong relationships with importers and institutional clients, delivering tailored premium mobility solutions. • Introduced brand-specific marketing and sales strategies adapted to cultural and regional expectations.
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