Skip advert
Advertisement

Franz-Josef Paefgen

Chairman and CEO, Bentley picks up the Award for automotive Person of the Year 2010.

Why he won...

Having enjoyed stints at Ford, Audi, Lamborghini and Bugatti, Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen isn’t short of career highlights – he oversaw the development of the Bugatti Veyron supercar, no less!

But the German has also worked wonders to establish the success of a peculiarly British brand. Since he took over in 2002, Bentley has gone from strength to strength. As well as making a successful Le Mans 24 Hours return, it launched the first truly modern Bentley – the Continental GT.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Under Paefgen’s careful and passionate stewardship, it now builds some of the most desirable luxury cars in the world, including the wonderful Mulsanne saloon.

To understand his achievement, you only have to look at the healthy order book and the model line-up – which is the strongest in Bentley’s history.

English football fans may think that foreign managers don’t understand the complexities of our heritage or culture, but Paefgen’s success proves this doesn’t hold true in the automotive world.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports
MST Ford Escort - front 3/4

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports

While not officially Fords, the MST Mk1 and Mk2 Sports should drive as sharply as they look
News
7 Jul 2025
New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range
MG IM5 - Goodwood front

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range

The all-electric IM5 brings new technology and design to the MG line-up
News
10 Jul 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Hot Volkswagen Golf GTI for a cool £287 a month
Volkswagen Golf GTI - front cornering left 1

Car Deal of the Day: Hot Volkswagen Golf GTI for a cool £287 a month

The Golf GTI has been a classic from day one – and it’s our Deal of the Day for 8 July.
News
8 Jul 2025