Porsche has announced a significant leadership shift in its design department: Tobias Sühlmann, formerly of McLaren, will take over as head of design on February 1, 2026, replacing Michael Mauer, who has led the team for over two decades.
A Changing of the Guard
Sühlmann brings extensive experience from McLaren, where he oversaw the design of models like the 750S and Artura Spider. He also previously worked at Aston Martin, Volkswagen (including Bugatti and Bentley), giving him a broad portfolio in high-performance automotive design.
This transition marks a turning point for Porsche’s design direction. Mauer, who joined Porsche in 2004, has been instrumental in shaping the look of modern Porsche vehicles – including multiple generations of the iconic 911, the Boxster, Cayman, and the introduction of models like the Panamera, Macan, Taycan, and 918 Spyder. His departure is noteworthy because design leaders rarely switch brands after such long tenures.
Industry Trend: Design Leadership Turnover
Mauer’s exit is part of a broader trend in the automotive industry: other prominent designers have recently left key roles. Mercedes-Benz’s Gorden Wagener resigned in late 2025 after nearly 30 years, and Jaguar Land Rover reportedly let go of Gerry McGovern (though the company later disputed this).
Why this matters: The departure of these senior designers suggests automakers are re-evaluating their design strategies. Whether it’s to embrace new aesthetics, accelerate electrification, or respond to shifting consumer tastes, these moves signal that design is becoming an even more critical factor in competition.
Porsche’s Future Design Direction
Porsche CEO Michael Leiters emphasized that Mauer “shaped an era” at the company and that Sühlmann will “sharpen Porsche’s profile.” Mauer himself stated that a “good time to bring new perspectives” has arrived, given the brand’s strategic realignment.
Sühlmann’s experience in sports and super-sports car design aligns with Porsche’s core identity. His appointment suggests that the brand intends to maintain its focus on performance-driven aesthetics while possibly exploring more radical or innovative design languages.
In conclusion: The appointment of Tobias Sühlmann as Porsche’s new design chief signals a shift in creative leadership. This move, alongside broader industry trends, confirms that automakers are actively reshaping their design strategies to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving market.
