Markus Haupt has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of SEAT and CUPRA, effective immediately. He has been serving as interim CEO since 1 April
Since joining as Executive VP for Production and Logistics in 2022, Haupt has driven a transformative shift, including a €3bn investment to electrify the Martorell plant. The company has led the Electric Urban Car family project with four models from three brands in two plants.
He said: “My passion for cars began early and has guided my career, from working on prototypes at the Volkswagen Group to now leading SEAT and CUPRA as CEO. I am honoured to steer the company through its most significant transformation, including the launch of groundbreaking models like the CUPRA Raval and our shift toward electrification.
“Together with the Executive Committee and our teams, I am confident we will write a new chapter of growth in the company’s history. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Oliver Blume, Thomas Schäfer, and the Board of the Volkswagen Group for placing their trust in me with this exciting challenge.
“I’m equally grateful to SEAT and CUPRA’s Executive Committee for being exceptional teammates and constant sources of inspiration. Together, I’m confident we will achieve remarkable things.”
With over 20 years of experience within the Volkswagen Group, Markus Haupt has held leadership roles across multiple brands and countries.
Thomas Schäfer, Chair of the SEAT and CUPRA Supervisory Board, said: “Markus brings over two decades of experience across multiple brands and countries within the Group.
“His deep expertise in production, logistics, and strategic planning makes him the ideal leader to drive the company’s electrification strategy and CUPRA’s continued growth.
“Having successfully led the transformation of SEAT and CUPRA’s facilities in preparation for the Electric Urban Car family, he is perfectly positioned to shape the brands’ future.”
