It’s all change at the top for Solihull-based Norton Motorcycles. The Indian-owned firm has announced the departure of Dr Robert Hentschel as CEO, who will step back but assume a non-executive director role within the company. At the same time, new executive director, Nevijo Mance, has been appointed to look after “upstream business operations”.
Hentschel has been at the helm of Norton since 2021, and it’s understood his departure has been in the pipeline for some time. Norton say Hentschel has been instrumental in strengthening the firm’s foundations, guiding the company through crucial stages of its growth plan and establishing a solid operational base. It also says he’s fostered a strong, synergistic relationship with its parent, TVS Motor.
Nevijo Mance, who has worked across senior management at Jaguar Land Rover and BMW, joins Norton as part of a new leadership structure. He’s joining as executive director, overseeing all upstream business operations, leading product design, development and engineering, manufacturing, procurement, quality control, and supply chain management. Mance’s focus on these areas will, the firm says, ensure it maintains high standards of craftsmanship, quality, and innovation.
Meanwhile, executive director Richard Arnold – appointed in June this year – will manage downstream business operations, including marketing, brand management, sales, distribution, customer relationship management, after-sales service, product management, and PR. His role will enhance customer experience, expand Norton’s market reach, and strengthen the brand’s presence across global markets.