DOMAGOJ DUKEC TO TAKE OVER AS DIRECTOR OF DESIGN AT ROLLS-ROYCE
In a significant move, Domagoj Dukec is set to join Rolls-Royce as the new director of design, taking over from Anders Warming. This change is part of a larger overhaul of the BMW Group’s design operations. Dukec is well-known in the industry for his role as the long-time design chief at BMW, where he led the brand’s complete overhaul of its car designs. He has been with BMW for over 14 years and has served in various high-ranking positions, including design director for the BMW i sub-brand and the M performance division.
Warming, who has been steering Rolls-Royce’s design department for the past three years, will be moving to become the head of the BMW Group’s global Designworks operation. This move reflects the company’s focus on future mobility and taking a more overarching view of design across its entire portfolio.
The changes in leadership at BMW Group Design also include the appointment of Maximillian Missoni, the former Polestar designer, to lead the design of upper mid-size and luxury-class BMW models. Oliver Heilmer, the head designer at Mini, will take over the design of smaller and mid-size BMW cars, including those from the M performance division.
These changes highlight the shifting demands for future-oriented design and BMW Group’s commitment to staying at the forefront of automotive design and innovation.
IMPACT OF WARMING’S DESIGN ON ROLLS-ROYCE
Anders Warming’s three-year tenure as the head of Rolls-Royce’s design department has had a substantial and lasting impact on the brand. Under his stewardship, Rolls-Royce launched several notable cars, including the electric Spectre, the refreshed Cullinan and Phantom, and the Droptail roadster. These cars have showcased Warming’s creativity and his ability to shape the brand’s aesthetic direction.
Warming’s move to become the head of BMW Group’s Designworks operation reflects the recognition of his wealth of experience and creativity. It also highlights BMW Group’s commitment to exploring future mobility and design possibilities across its entire range of vehicles.
DUKEC’S ROLE IN BMW’S DESIGN TRANSFORMATION
Domagoj Dukec’s appointment as the new director of design at Rolls-Royce is a testament to his expertise and experience in leading design transformations. During his time at BMW, Dukec played a pivotal role in completely overhauling the look of the brand’s cars. One notable design change under his leadership is the adoption of substantial new grilles for all BMW cars, a move that has been both polarizing and brand-shaping.
His extensive experience in various high-ranking design positions at BMW, including the design director for the BMW i sub-brand and the M performance division, makes him well-equipped to take on the role of director of design at Rolls-Royce. Dukec’s appointment signals a new chapter for Rolls-Royce’s design language and the continued evolution of the brand’s iconic aesthetic.
ROLLS-ROYCE’S FUTURE PLANS
While Rolls-Royce hasn’t yet revealed its next production car after the Spectre, the company is working on an update package for the Ghost. Additionally, Rolls-Royce is focusing on future electric vehicles as it aims to go all-electric by 2030.
Under Dukec’s leadership, Rolls-Royce will likely continue to push the boundaries of luxury automotive design and embrace new technologies. The expansion of the highly lucrative Bespoke division will also be a key area of focus, as Rolls-Royce caters to the growing demand for personalized and unique luxury experiences.
CONCLUSION
The appointment of Domagoj Dukec as the new director of design at Rolls-Royce signifies an exciting new chapter for the luxury brand. With his extensive experience in leading design transformations at BMW, Dukec is well-positioned to shape the future design language of Rolls-Royce. Anders Warming’s move to head BMW Group’s Designworks operation reflects the company’s commitment to exploring future mobility and design possibilities. These changes highlight BMW Group’s dedication to staying at the forefront of automotive design and innovation. As Rolls-Royce looks ahead to its future lineup, including electric vehicles, the brand’s commitment to luxury and bespoke experiences remains unwavering.
