Porsche has confirmed that it has entered talks with Michael Leiters, the former McLaren Automotive CEO, as a potential successor to Oliver Blume, who is expected to step down as Porsche chief executive in 2026 while continuing to lead Volkswagen Group.
The announcement follows reports from Der Spiegel and Bild that Blume’s dual leadership roles at both Volkswagen and Porsche were drawing increasing scrutiny amid operational challenges at Porsche.
See also: Porsche CEO Oliver Blume Set to Step Down, Focus on Volkswagen Role
The company said in a statement that its Supervisory Board had instructed the chairman to discuss an amicable early departure with Blume and to begin negotiations with Leiters as a “possible successor to the position of Chairman of the Board of Management.”
Leiters, a seasoned automotive executive, previously held key positions within Porsche from 2000 to 2013, including project manager for the Cayenne and director of the product line. He later joined Ferrari as Chief Technology Officer, where he oversaw development of upcoming electrified models, before taking over as McLaren Automotive CEO in 2022. Under his leadership, McLaren stabilized after a pandemic-induced crisis that led to major job cuts.
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The planned leadership transition in early 2026 marks another step in Porsche’s executive restructuring following management changes earlier this year. In February, Chief Financial Officer Lutz Meschke and Chief Sales Officer Detlev von Platen left the company, with their roles filled internally. If finalized, Leiters’ appointment would bring an experienced yet external perspective back to Zuffenhausen, as Porsche continues its transformation amid electrification and strategic realignment within the Volkswagen Group.