Case StudyGlobal design leadership with a lasting impact at Changan

Wenham Carter proactively introduced internationally renowned automotive designer Klaus Zyciora to Changan in 2023.

Appointed Vice President, Global Design, he brought decades of experience leading international design organisations to one of China's largest automotive manufacturers. Three years later, his influence has extended beyond design into a broader strategic role, supporting Changan's global ambitions.

Published:

The global ambitionBuilding an international automotive brand

Changan is one of China’s largest automotive manufacturers, with ambitions to compete across major global markets.

As the company expanded internationally, design became an increasingly important part of its strategy. With studios across China, Europe and Japan, Changan was developing vehicles for a wider range of markets and customers.

The business needed experienced international leadership to bring its global design capabilities together, develop a distinctive identity across its brands and strengthen its standing within the automotive industry.

The introductionAn opportunity recognised through our network

In October 2023, Klaus Zyciora joined Changan as Vice President, responsible for Global Design.

With more than three decades at Volkswagen Group, including senior design leadership roles across Volkswagen and the wider organisation, Klaus brought extensive experience shaping automotive brands and leading international teams.

Wenham Carter proactively introduced Klaus to Changan, recognising the contribution his experience, industry relationships and international reputation could make to the business.

For Klaus, the appointment offered the opportunity to shape the design direction of a major Chinese automotive manufacturer at a pivotal point in its international development.

The appointment brought decades of international automotive design experience into Changan, alongside the leadership and industry recognition to support its global ambitions.

International influenceA stronger global design organisation

Klaus took responsibility for Changan’s international design organisation, bringing together teams across China, Europe and Japan to develop vehicles for global markets.

His work extended into brand positioning and international market development. Alongside leading the design organisation, he became a prominent representative of Changan as the company expanded its presence in Europe.

Under his leadership, Changan’s design teams gained international recognition, including five nominations at the 2025 Car Design News People Awards. He also contributed to the company’s international product direction, including vehicles introduced to European markets.

His appointment brought established global automotive experience into Changan’s leadership at a time when the business was building its international identity and presence.

 

A broader roleDesign experience influencing business strategy

In October 2026, three years after joining Changan, Klaus moved into the position of Global Chief Executive Advisor.

His new remit extends across design, technology, business and global strategy, reflecting a broader contribution to the company’s direction.

The progression demonstrates the continuing value of international leadership experience to Changan, extending the impact of the original appointment well beyond the design function.

For Wenham Carter, the appointment is part of a wider relationship with Changan that began in 2022. Our work has supported the establishment of its European commercial operations and connected the business with experienced international leaders as its ambitions have developed.

Three years after his appointment, Klaus's move into a global strategic advisory role reflects the enduring value of the international experience and perspective he brought to Changan.

People The Right People

Continue the conversation with the people who know this market, the businesses shaping it and the minds moving it forward.

Meet more of the team

More Evidence No stone unturned

View all Evidence

Markets Explore markets beyond the obvious

We organise our expertise around dynamic, global market ecosystems - rather than traditional industry silos – to see and seek connections others cannot.

Markets

Partner with us FIND the minds that will move your market.

Whether you need a CEO, a team rebuild, or a strategic introduction, we’re here to help. Our networks, experience and approach put the right connections within reach.

Ready when you are.

Markets We operate where innovation happens

From in-orbit to in-vivo, we connect the right minds to move markets forward.

What expertise do you need?

Forces Navigating the dynamics of disruption

We track the forces rippling across industries and economies, spotting the first signs of what’s next so you are ready to act.

What's driving change in your business?

Solutions Helping you get ahead

We understand where you’re going and help you get there one person, team, partnership, or investment at a time.

What would help you go further?
Secret Link