Michael Bernhardt Email & Phone Number

The last 10 years of my professional carrier I spent with Mercedes-Benz. In 2012 I graduated my dual studies program in International Business and started as a product and market manager for the G-Class. Together with a wonderfully committed team I realized fascinating products such as the G 63 AMG 6x6, many special editions and last but not least the G manufactur, a customization program at its best. In 2014 I became the project manager for sales & marketing for the all new G-Class. Based on market and customer needs, I defined the product strategy and aligned the requirements with design, engineering and other involved stakeholders. In the following I led the product launch team, which defined the roadmap to market launch, I derived a product communication strategy, the key messages and the training content. Finally I travelled to China, Japan, Ibiza, France and Germany to present the car to trainers, customers, press and media. Having been part of the development team for the all new G-Class in 2018 was the ultimate highlight in 10 years of product management G-Class. This was only enhanced by a Fast Track program initiated by the Mercedes-Benz Cars Board of Management to develop startups in key future business areas. In 8 months we developed in a multinational team an e-mobility startup, which was successfully pitched in front of the board. In 2018 I became team leader for the G-Class product marketing team, having been responsible for 3 employees. In 2021 my wife and I made a life-changing decision and I left Mercedes-Benz. Hand in hand I left a great team, a managmenet position, a highly motivating product and a great employer. But I won time! Time for my family, time to support my kids in growing up, time to travel and time to refocus. 2 years later, batteries are charged, our horizon is expanded and I‘m back in my professional carrier.Since early 2023 I‘m part of Ineos Automotive, first as Product Manager, from June onwards as Manager for sales operations Europe. What really matters (to me) is a motivating product and an open-minded culture. I lead my team with authenticity, trust and motivation, my pillars for high performance.