Audi Ireland recently announced Christian Gussen as Brand Director. Christian returns to Ireland from Audi AG, Ingolstadt, where he held the position of Director Region Overseas of Japan, Korea, Australia, New Zealand and ASEAN from 2016 to 2024.
Familiar with the Irish motoring landscape having previously held the role of Audi Ireland Brand Director from 2013 to 2016. Christian was instrumental in the incredible success that Audi enjoyed during that period; increased sales year on year and an astonishing 32% premium market share in 2015.
Prior to 2013 Christian held numerous roles with Audi Italia as Head of Network, Aftersales and Marketing Director.
The appointment comes as Damien O’Sullivan accepted the position as Managing Director of Volkswagen Group UK in December 2024. Damien steered Audi through challenging economic conditions while overseeing the launch of key new models to the market, including the first model built on the PPE (Premium Platform Electric), the Audi Q6 e-tron and all new Audi A5, the reimagined iconic Audi A4. Audi also retained the number one premium automotive brand in Ireland throughout his tenure.
Christian re-joins Audi Ireland at an exciting time. Over the coming months Audi continues their strong product offensive with a number of new models arriving to Ireland including the all-electric Audi A6 e-tron and the ever-popular Audi Q5, to name just a few.
Commenting on the new appointment, Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Ireland, Pierre Boutin said: “I am pleased to welcome Christian back to Audi Ireland, and look forward to working with him and the Audi team as they continue to forge the brand’s success story here in Ireland. Christian has a great love and passion for Ireland and returns with a wealth of knowledge to apply within the market having worked in Ingolstadt, and across overseas markets including Asia and Europe.
“His drive for success will see Audi remain as number one premium brand in Ireland and much more. I’d also like to take the opportunity to thank Damien for his hard work and dedication. We wish Damien every success in his new role in the UK.”
Gussen added: “I’m looking forward to returning to Ireland and working closely with both the Audi Ireland team and the dealer network at this pivotal time for the brand, with a lot of exciting models arriving in Ireland in the near future.”
Audi closed 2024 with around 1.7 million global sales, around 164,000 of which were fully electric vehicles. A total of 5,448 new cars were delivered to Irish customers. Audi leads the way in the premium automotive market in Ireland, with a market share of 25.8%.
