Audi South Africa has appointed Ricci Birchfield as the company's new Head of Marketing, Product and Public Relations, effective Saturday, 1 February. Ricci succeeds Tarryn Knight and brings more than 18 years of experience in the automotive industry, specialising in marketing, digital strategy and business transformation.
Audi South Africa says that Birchfield's career has been defined by a deep understanding of the automotive industry's rapidly changing landscape. He has held key roles in both the global and local automotive sectors, serving as Head of Digital Business Market Relations at Audi AG, where he led the communication and collaboration of global digital initiatives for Audi's digital business in Ingolstadt, Germany.
Prior to that, Birchfield contributed significantly to Audi South Africa's brand management and digital transformation, playing an integral role in shaping the company's marketing strategy, the company adds.
"We're thrilled to have Ricci join us in this new role," says the Head of Audi South Africa, Sascha Sauer. "Ricci's wealth of experience, particularly in digital strategy and transformation, will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and evolve in the fast-paced automotive industry. His leadership will play a crucial role in driving our brand's success and expanding our presence in the South African market."
Birchfield's commitment to advancing the automotive industry's digital future is matched by his passion for creating customer-centric solutions that elevate the Audi experience. His vision for Audi South Africa includes enhancing the customer journey through cutting-edge initiatives and strengthening the brand's position in the market as a leader in design, performance and digitalisation, Audi South Africa adds.
"Coming back into the Audi brand in this role is a special moment for me, not only because of the opportunity to be part of a fantastic team that shapes and strengthens the brand in South Africa, but because I get to work on a brand that truly aligns with my core values," says Birchfield.
"It's an iconic brand with a progressive spirit. A brand that challenges the status quo. A brand of substance. This is Vorsprung," Birchfield concludes.
For more information, visit www.audi.co.za. You can also follow Audi South Africa on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, or on Instagram.
*Image courtesy of contributor