Strategic Leadership Change at Skoda Auto's Procurement

Skoda Auto, a pivotal brand within the Volkswagen Group, is set to welcome Michael Kerschensteiner as its new Chief Procurement Officer (CPO) effective February 1, 2026. Kerschensteiner will take over from Karsten Schnake, who transitions to a board member role for procurement at the Volkswagen brand. This high-profile appointment signals a renewed focus on procurement strategy and operational efficiency at a critical juncture for the automotive industry.

Kerschensteiner's Mandate: Industrialization and Regional Focus

Bringing extensive experience from Volkswagen Group and Audi AG since 2004, Michael Kerschensteiner's new role extends beyond Skoda Auto's direct operations. He will also oversee procurement for the ‘East’ region within Volkswagen's Brand Group Core. His responsibilities will center on the product strategy of procurement and the industrialization of new vehicle projects across the Group’s brands. This strategic emphasis on industrialization suggests potential investments in new manufacturing processes, advanced production facilities, and specialized R&D centers, which directly translates to demand for modern industrial and tech-oriented real estate.

Implications for Industrial and Logistics Real Estate in Central & Eastern Europe

For businesses specializing in commercial real estate, especially those with interests in industrial and warehouse space, Kerschensteiner's appointment is particularly noteworthy. The focus on 'industrialization' implies a potential need for:

  • Advanced Manufacturing Facilities: Suppliers to Skoda Auto and the broader Volkswagen Group may need to upgrade or expand their production sites to align with new industrialization strategies, driving demand for purpose-built or highly adaptable industrial spaces.
  • Logistics and Distribution Hubs: As CPO with responsibility for the 'East' region, Kerschensteiner's strategies could optimize supply chains, leading to increased demand for efficient warehouse and distribution centers strategically located throughout Central and Eastern Europe. This includes modern logistics parks that can handle just-in-time deliveries and complex inventory management.
  • Research & Development (R&D) Offices and Labs: A focus on product strategy and new vehicle projects often necessitates enhanced R&D capabilities. This could spur demand for specialized office space, technical labs, and innovation hubs for automotive suppliers and technology partners.

The explicit mention of the 'East' region underscores the continued strategic importance of countries like the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, and Hungary within the automotive supply chain. Businesses seeking to capitalize on this potential growth should consider positioning themselves in key industrial zones and logistics corridors across these nations.

Opportunity for Real Estate Investors and Tenants

This leadership change at Skoda Auto serves as a strong indicator for businesses looking to rent or invest in industrial and office space. A proactive procurement strategy from a major OEM can have a ripple effect throughout its vast supplier network, creating new requirements for facilities that support efficient manufacturing, logistics, and innovation. Commercial real estate professionals should monitor these developments closely to identify emerging opportunities and support the evolving needs of the automotive sector's ecosystem.

Source: systemylogistiky.cz