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Franz Josef Popp founded and led BMW AG as General Director from 1922-1942, leading its transition from aircraft engines to automobiles.
Despite being instrumental in BMW's early success, Nazi pressure forced his resignation in 1942.
His post-war attempts to rejoin BMW's leadership failed as well.
Fritz Hille led BMW from 1942 to 1945, directing the company's wartime production of aircraft engines and military vehicles.
He shifted manufacturing away from civilian cars to serve Nazi military demands, operating multiple plants dedicated to war equipment.
BMW was a key supplier for the German war machine during this era.
From 1948 to 1957, Hanns Grewenig rebuilt BMW's dealer network and steered its return to car manufacturing.
He focused BMW on profitable luxury vehicles like the 501 sedan.
The popular Isetta microcar was launched as well.
Heinrich Richter-Brohm, who led BMW from 1957 to 1960, played a pivotal role in the company's revival during a challenging period when it was on the brink of collapse.
BMW introduced the innovative and well-received BMW 700 Coupé in 1959, which showcased the company's commitment to performance and helped to turn its fortunes around.
He also saw the development of the popular BMW 700 Sport, a more powerful version—popular in motor racing circles.
From 1970 to 1993, Eberhard von Kuenheim turned BMW from a niche German carmaker into a global luxury brand.
He launched the 3, 5, and 7 Series models.
Factories were opened around the world and BMW's workforce grew from 23,000 to 71,000 employees.
He was also known for his collaborative approach with labor unions and flexible manufacturing methods.
As BMW's CEO from 1993-1999, Bernd Pischetsrieder modernized production methods and boosted luxury car sales.
His tenure ended after the failed Rover Group acquisition cost BMW billions, forcing his resignation.
As BMW's CEO from 2002-2006, Helmut Panke drove profits by customizing luxury cars and expanding production.
He built factories in the US, China, and India.
The company achieved industry-leading profit margins through its focus on high-end vehicles and personalized manufacturing.
Becoming BMW's CEO from 2006 to 2015, Reithofer led the company through the 2008 financial crisis while increasing annual sales from 1.4 to 2.1 million vehicles.
His hands-on management style emphasized factory efficiency and strategic investments in electric vehicles.
BMW maintained 10% profit margins despite being a high-cost manufacturer in Germany.
Harald Krüger led BMW Group from 2015 to 2019, directing MINI, BMW Motorcycles, Rolls-Royce, and production operations.
His cautious approach to electric vehicle development drew criticism as Tesla and other competitors were making big gains in EVs.
A notable moment in his tenure came when he accompanied Angela Merkel to meet Donald Trump in 2017.
Since 2019, BMW CEO Oliver Zipse has led the company toward electric vehicles and sustainable manufacturing.
He launched BMW's electric lineup expansion and initiated the Neue Klasse platform for future models.
Beyond EVs, Zipse has pushed BMW to reduce production waste and develop hydrogen-powered vehicles.
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