Håkan Samuelsson: A Profile

Håkan Samuelsson is a prominent figure in the automotive industry, best known for his tenure as the President and CEO of Volvo Cars from 2012 to 2022. His leadership was instrumental in transforming Volvo into a globally competitive premium brand, defined by its commitment to safety, sustainability, and Scandinavian design.

Born in Sweden, Samuelsson’s career began in the automotive sector at Scania, where he held various engineering and management positions for over two decades. His background in engineering, particularly in product development and manufacturing, provided a solid foundation for his later leadership roles.

Before joining Volvo, Samuelsson served as CEO of MAN SE, a leading European commercial vehicle manufacturer. This experience broadened his understanding of the complexities of global operations and the importance of technological innovation in a rapidly evolving industry.

Samuelsson’s arrival at Volvo Cars coincided with a critical juncture in the company’s history. After being acquired by Geely Holding Group, Volvo needed a strong leader to revitalize the brand and guide its strategic direction. Samuelsson stepped in and implemented a bold strategy centered around several key pillars.

Firstly, he spearheaded a significant investment in new product development, resulting in a completely redesigned Volvo lineup. Models like the XC90, S90, and XC60 were lauded for their sophisticated design, advanced safety features, and luxurious interiors, helping Volvo compete directly with established premium brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

Secondly, Samuelsson championed electrification. Under his leadership, Volvo made a firm commitment to becoming a fully electric car company by 2030. This ambitious goal involved a significant investment in electric vehicle technology and a shift in the company’s overall strategy towards sustainability. He oversaw the launch of Volvo’s first all-electric models, including the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge, demonstrating the company’s commitment to its electric future.

Thirdly, Samuelsson emphasized Volvo’s core value of safety. He continued to reinforce Volvo’s reputation as a leader in automotive safety by introducing new and innovative safety technologies in its vehicles. He also reiterated the company’s vision of eliminating deaths and serious injuries in new Volvo cars.

Beyond products and technology, Samuelsson also focused on strengthening Volvo’s brand image and global presence. He expanded Volvo’s manufacturing footprint and sales network, further solidifying its position in key markets around the world.

While his leadership was widely praised, Samuelsson also faced challenges during his tenure, including navigating the complexities of global supply chains, managing the transition to electric vehicles, and addressing increasing competition in the automotive industry. Nevertheless, he successfully steered Volvo through these challenges, leaving a legacy of innovation, growth, and transformation.

Since stepping down as CEO in 2022, Samuelsson has continued to contribute to the automotive industry through advisory roles and board positions. His extensive experience and strategic insights remain highly valued in a rapidly changing and dynamic industry.