Joe King to be Audi India head, Perschke back to Germany

Perschke will move as Head of Network Strategy and Business Management, international level at Audi AG

German luxury car maker Audi today announced a top level management change in its Indian operations, with Joe King being appointed as Head effective from September 1, 2013 in place of Michael Perschke who is moving back to the headquarters.

Perschke, who moved to Audi India in July 2010 and was instrumental in success of Audi in the country, will move as Head of Network Strategy and Business Management, international level at Audi AG, the company said in a statement.

During his tenure in India, the Audi brand improved its position from 3,003 cars in 2010 to 9,003 cars in 2012. The company emerged as the number one luxury car brand in the country for 2012-2013 ahead of rivals BMW and Mercedes Benz.

King moves to Audi India from Audi Australia, where he played an integral role in the management team of Audi Australia Pty Ltd, the company said.

"As General Manager and Dealer Principal of Audi Australia's wholly-owned retail subsidiary, Audi Centre Sydney, Joe King was responsible, over the last four years, for the management, development and direction of the dealership operations," the statement added.

Educated at the University of Melbourne, King has over 23 years of automotive experience to the role, having commenced his career with Toyota in 1990.

From 1996 until 2009, Joe King held various roles with BMW Group Australia, including Managing Director of BMW Sydney and General Manager of Sales. He also held the position of General Manager of Sales at BMW Melbourne, along with the role of Finance and Insurance Manager.