Karin Rådström to succeed Martin Daum as CEO of Daimler Truck

In News, Daimler3 MinutesBy NZ Trucking magazineSeptember 6, 2024

Karin Rådström has been named the new chief executive officer at Daimler Truck, succeeding Martin Daum.

Effective 1 October, she is appointed in the role until January 31, 2029.

Daum, who began his career at Daimler-Benz AG in 1987 will remain a full member of the board of management until 31 December 31, 2024, to support a smooth handover.

“Personally, and on behalf of the entire supervisory board, I would like to thank Martin Daum for his commitment and outstanding results,” said Joe Kaeser, chairman of the supervisory board of Daimler Truck Holding AG.

“He has been leading Daimler Truck’s transition from a conglomerate division into a successful DAX-listed company in a convincing manner. Thus, he led it through one of its most eventful times in recent history and has been the key architect of Daimler Truck’s economic success and international reputation,” he said.

“His dedication to the company, its customers and employees is remarkable. He is a ‘trucker’ with heart and soul. Martin Daum hands over a successful company which is well prepared for the challenges ahead.”

As CEO of Daimler Trucks North America, Daum played a key role in growing the local business. Today, the segment North America is one of Daimler Truck’s powerhouses.

Since assuming the role as member of the board of management of the former Daimler AG for Trucks and Buses in 2017, Daum and his leadership team have significantly increased revenues while strongly enhancing margins, thereby providing greater flexibility for future investments. Under his leadership, Daimler Truck has spearheaded the technological transformation with both battery electric and hydrogen-based drivetrains.

Karin Rådström joined Daimler Truck’s board of management in 2021 and since then has been responsible for Mercedes-Benz Trucks. Within a short period of time, the trained engineer has successfully reshaped the segment profitability and advanced its transformation towards sustainability.

She has introduced a range of new battery electric trucks while driving customer focus together with her team, leading to an enhanced service offering and an increased customer satisfaction.

“We are delighted to win Karin Rådström with her outstanding industry knowledge and leadership skills as the new CEO of Daimler Truck Holding AG,” said Kaeser.

“She has proven that she is able to successfully advance the transformation of a brand while navigating a challenging external environment,” he said.

“As a true leader, Karin has been instrumental in establishing a new performance culture and fostering empowerment, diversity and customer focus. These principles are essential for Daimler Truck to master the transformation of mobility successfully and be our customers’ first choice. We wish her and her team great success and we are very much looking forward to continuing our collaboration.