Who's Where: Gorden Wagener to head Mercedes Advanced Design NA

Mon, 20 Feb 2006

German designer Gorden Wagener, 37, has been appointed President of Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design of North America. Beginning his new position on January 1. 2006, Wagener now focuses on products specifically for North America, including production and show cars as well as advanced projects. The Californian studio will also compete with other Mercedes facilities in Germany and Japan for the opportunity to develop products for European and Asian markets.

Previously Gorden Wagener was Head of Exterior / Interior Styling for the A-/B-/C-/E-Class platforms. His achievements include the exterior design of the second-generation Mercedes-Benz SLK and A-Class, the new S-Class and the GST concept that previewed the R-Class.

Before joining Mercedes-Benz nine years ago, Wagener worked for General Motors in Frankfurt after finishing his studies at the Royal College of Art, London in 1994. He also worked briefly at Mazda and Volkswagen between these positions. In his new role, Wagener will report directly to Professor Peter Pfieffer, Senior Vice President of Mercedes-Benz passenger cars.