Mercedes-Benz Cars Middle East restructures roles to manage 100+ markets from Dubai
New leadership reinforces Dubai as global hub for Mercedes-Benz General Distributor ops
Dubai: Mercedes-Benz Cars Middle East (MBCME) has announced a major leadership restructuring at its Dubai headquarters, reinforcing the emirate’s role as a strategic global hub for the company’s General Distributor (MBGD) operations across more than 100 international markets.
The new structure is part of Mercedes-Benz’s broader effort to streamline operations and unify customer experience standards across key regions, including Central and Eastern Europe, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. The company aims to accelerate innovation and improve collaboration under one global ecosystem, all managed from Dubai.
CEO to lead charge
Leading this transformation is Michael Stroband, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Cars Middle East and Head of MBGD, who will oversee tighter cross-market alignment and operational synergy across the vast GD network.
“This leadership transition underscores our commitment to expanding MBGD’s global influence while refining the luxury experience through innovation,” Stroband said. “With Dubai serving as a global hub, we are proud to drive the future of mobility and redefine how the Mercedes-Benz brand is experienced across our international distributor network.”
As part of the new structure:
Karsten Klauenberg has been appointed Director of Customer Services and Retail Training for MBGD, effective June 1, 2025. With deep experience in the Service and Parts business, Klauenberg will oversee customer service operations across all GD markets worldwide, maintaining the high standards associated with the Mercedes-Benz brand.
Pablo Souto, currently Director of Network Development & Online-to-Offline, will take on additional responsibilities for Marketing, also effective June 1, 2025. The expanded role is aimed at enhancing the customer journey by integrating brand experiences across both digital and physical channels.
Bonnie Al-Fakhri has been named Head of Marketing & Communications, effective May 1, 2025. A 10-year veteran of Mercedes-Benz, Al-Fakhri previously led Human Resources at MBCME and was instrumental in the rollout of MBGD transformation programs. Her new role will focus on cross-regional marketing collaboration, brand alignment, and customer-centric growth strategies.
The changes reflect Mercedes-Benz’s intent to deepen its influence in emerging markets while ensuring brand consistency and operational excellence globally.
With this restructure, Mercedes-Benz reinforces Dubai’s pivotal role as a nerve center for luxury mobility innovation, positioning the city at the forefront of its international growth strategy.
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