Volkswagen Group of America Announces New Vice-Presidents for Group and Brand Communications; Government Relations

HERNDON, VA - December 22, 2009: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. today announced two personnel additions to the Volkswagen brand and the Volkswagen Group's management team. Anna-Maria Schneider has been promoted to vice president, industry and government relations. Jill Bratina has accepted the position of vice president, Volkswagen Group corporate communications and Volkswagen brand communications.

In this new dual role, Bratina will be responsible for strategically integrating Group and brand communications. She will work to leverage Volkswagen's investments in the U.S. market and continue to build Volkswagen's reputation for innovation and sustainability, and increase familiarity and consideration for the brand. Steve Keyes will continue in his role as director for Volkswagen press and public relations, reporting to Jill Bratina.

"2010 begins a critical new decade for Volkswagen in the U.S. and Jill's new position underscores our desire to aggressively communicate our growth strategy and the company mission, management vision and corporate values," said Stefan Jacoby, president and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America.

Schneider, formerly director, industry and government relations brings more than 20 years experience in automotive government relations, having formerly served as vice president and deputy to the group vice president, government and industry affairs for Toyota Motor North America, Inc. She also served as executive director, government relations, U.S. operations, Mitsubishi Motors and as a director for intergovernmental affairs at Global USA.

"With just more than a year with the Volkswagen Group, Anna Schneider has grown relationships with elected officials and effectively communicated the Group's sustainable mobility strategy with key constituencies on Capitol Hill and within the Administration," Jacoby said.

Bratina, who has served as director of corporate communications, has a background in public affairs, corporate and crisis communications. She served as director of corporate communications for former Florida Governor Jeb Bush and prior to that as director of public affairs for Bridgestone/Firestone during the company's tire recall. After leaving then-Governor Bush's administration in 2004, she joined Public Strategies, Inc., a strategic communications consulting firm.