Adrian Hallmark, chairman of Bentley Motors since 2018, has just been announced as the new chief executive officer of Aston Martin.
Remarkable success
Hallmark has overseen remarkable success for Bentley, steering the company through the pandemic and managing the launches of key new models such as the Bentayga, the latest versions of three Continental GT and Flying Spur, and high-priced bespoke models such as the Batur. Not to mention starting Bentley's electric journey with its first plug-in hybrid cars.
The switch to Aston Martin has come as a surprise, but that firm - nowadays controlled by Canadian billionaire Lawrence Stroll and with some shares held by Mercedes-Benz and Chinese giant Geely - is potentially on the cusp of big things itself.
Recently, Aston has seen significant sales success with the DBX SUV and has re-invented its big coupe line-up with the DB12, a major improvement over the old DB11. Next up is the new Vantage coupe, and following that we should get to finally see the production version of the mid-engined Valhalla, a rival to Ferrari's 298 GTB.
Electric plans
Aston has also taken the electric path, signing a tie-up with EV brand Lucid to help it develop plug-in hybrid and fully electric models.
Hallmark will replace former Ferrari boss Amadeo Felisa, who steered both the DB12 and the hyper-expensive Valkyrie into production. Felisa will remain in post until Hallmark officially takes up the reins in October.
Hallmark, 61, has held senior posts at Jaguar Land Rover and Saab and was a member of Volkswagen's board for four years.
Commenting on the new appointment, Lawrence Stroll, Executive Chairman of Aston Martin, said: "When Amedeo was appointed CEO, I spoke of him leading a new phase of growth and development. Two years on, we have delivered on that promise, as we near completion of our thrilling new product portfolio and move closer to our vision of becoming the world's most desirable, ultra-luxury British performance brand.
"I'd like to personally pay tribute to Amedeo, recognising not just what he has achieved at Aston Martin but throughout his long and distinguished career at the very top of the ultra-luxury automotive industry. I am pleased that Amedeo will remain in post until Adrian joins and will continue to oversee the launch of our upcoming products, with our breathtaking line-up of new front engine sports cars a fitting legacy to his time leading the Company and its product strategy. We look forward to celebrating Amedeo's contribution to Aston Martin's recent success before wishing him the very best.
"In Adrian Hallmark, we are attracting one of the highest calibre leaders not just in our segment, but in the entire global automotive industry. Complementing our world-class leadership, Adrian will bring to Aston Martin unrivalled experience in both the ultra-luxury and British manufacturing sectors to progress our strategy and continue recent momentum."
Continued transformation
Felisa himself said: "It has been a great privilege to serve as Aston Martin's Chief Executive Officer, leading our iconic brand through this exciting era. I am incredibly proud of the progress made over the last two years, which has aligned Aston Martin for a positive future direction. I believe now is the right time to allow the Company to transition to new leadership. I'd like to thank Lawrence and the Board for their strong support throughout my time as CEO, and colleagues who've worked incredibly hard in recent years to deliver on our vision for Aston Martin and execute on our award-winning new product strategy. I am looking forward to delivering our upcoming new products before handing over to Adrian, who is a fantastic appointment for Aston Martin with a wealth of first-class experience."
Adrian Hallmark said: "Like many working within the ultra-luxury segment, I have admired the continued transformation of Aston Martin's brand and products from afar and feel honoured to have the opportunity to work with Lawrence, the Board and the Company's employees to lead its next chapter. The transformation of Aston Martin is one of the most exciting projects within the ultra-luxury automotive industry. I am looking forward to continuing the Company's great momentum and utilising my experience and passion to further unleash this iconic brand's potential and take it to even greater success."