10 Oct 2014 17:29

Achim Saurer to head Audi's Russian division

MOSCOW. Oct 10 (Interfax) - Achim Saurer, a previous employee of Audi for western and southern Germany, will head Audi AG's Russian division starting on November 1, Audi said in a press release.

"The Audi concern considers Russia to be a strategic area of business, as the Russian market has great potential. My task is to maintain Audi's leading position in the premium segment and to be ready for a new rise in the market," Saurer is quoted in the press release as saying.

Audi opened five new dealership centers in Russia in 2014, and another five will begin operations by the end of the year.

Audi's former chief for Russia, Elena Smirnova, decided to continue her career outside of the company, the press release says.