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Paul Sansom, managing director of Audi Australia said of her exit: “Nikki’s contribution to the Audi brand in Australia has been tremendous, and we are grateful for her leadership and expertise, which has enabled us to be in such a strong position.”
Nikki joined Audi in a difficult phase, characterised by delays in our product lifecycles, which resulted in the significant untapped opportunity to further strengthen our brand in Australia. Since then, her team has exceeded all expectations in turning this around into the strong position we are in today.
Sansom concluded: “While we regret to see Nikki leave, we understand it is the right time for her to accept her next challenge, especially given the strength of the team she leaves behind.”
For her part, Warburton said she was ready for a fresh professional challenge. Warburton’s resume also includes working in marketing and advertising for Austar until its sale to Foxtel in 2012 as well as for the Astre Automotive Group encompassing Hyundai, Chrysler Jeep and Audi. She has also been a Women in TV mentor and is an executive patron for the foundation board of Taronga Zoo.
“Audi is an incredible brand and I’ve had an amazing time helping it to shine as brightly as it does now, and I will always carry with me a great fondness for the fearless progress it has always stood for,” she said.
Warburton has led the product, customer and marketing departments for Audi Australia during her tenure.
Warburton’s successor is expected to be announced in the next few weeks. She is yet to say what her “next challenge” is.
In February, Audi Australia announced that it merged its affiliated brands in the national sales company Volkswagen Group Australia (VGA).
Audi Australia (established in 1997) and VGA (2001) have hitherto traded as separate NSCs. The companies, which shared functions such as IT and procurement, had for some time-examined other areas for combining recourses culminating in the decision to merge as per practice in most markets where multiple Group brands are sold.
At the time of the announcement, Sansom said that the merger would have clear benefits both for Audi and VGA.
“Audi Australia has enjoyed enormous success over the last 15 years and the consolidation of its place in the Volkswagen Group here begins the next exciting chapter,” Sansom said.
“As a prestige brand, Audi has its own distinct identity in VGA and remains the Group’s technological spearhead. Vorsprung durch Technik means to progress through technology and Audi is set to continue its rich history of innovation by taking a leading role in future mobility,” he said.
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