In full expansion in the French market, BYD seems to be playing its cards brilliantly, relying on freshly recruited talents from Volkswagen. With renowned personalities at the helm, the Chinese manufacturer is not just selling electric cars; it is positioning itself as an essential player in the European automotive industry.
A bold hiring strategy
BYD continues to place its pieces in France, not only by improving its product offering but also by surrounding itself with seasoned professionals. Among the new recruits, several come directly from the Volkswagen Group. These strategic moves illustrate the ambition of the Chinese manufacturer to accelerate its development in the French market while appropriating the expertise of one of the giants of the automotive industry.
BYD continues to establish itself in France… © BYD
A significant reinforcement: Dorothée Bonassies
In November 2025, BYD made a significant move by recruiting Dorothée Bonassies, the former director of Volkswagen France. This experienced woman, who worked within the VW group for eight years, now takes the reins of BYD France. Her arrival is more than just an appointment; it represents BYD’s intention to strengthen its distribution network and expand its ambitions on a European and American scale. Indeed, Bonassies has also been appointed general director of BYD for Europe and the Americas, which demonstrates the confidence placed in her.
A new direction with Anthony Perier
But Dorothée is not the only one to have left Volkswagen to join the promising venture of BYD. In September 2025, Anthony Perier, former head of the sales and network department at VW in France, became the sales director at BYD. This strategic transfer only adds to the legitimacy of the Chinese brand on French soil. Meanwhile, Laurent Carémantrant has been appointed to replace Perier at Volkswagen, proving that these moves are both well thought out and calculated.
David Charrier: a significant departure
On 1st January 2026, it was David Charrier who decided to follow his colleagues by joining BYD as the sales administration director. After fourteen years spent within the Volkswagen Group, Charrier brings with him valuable experience. This departure leaves a considerable void at Volkswagen, but it also illustrates the current dynamics at BYD, which seeks to strengthen itself in all sectors. It is worth noting that this recruitment comes as BYD becomes a major sponsor of Euro 2024, a competition that will take place in Germany, where Volkswagen is traditionally king.
A strengthened team for an ambitious future
With these three significant transfers, BYD seems determined to carve its own path in the European automotive landscape. By surrounding itself with former senior executives from Volkswagen, the Chinese manufacturer does not hesitate to appropriate the know-how of a historical player. Their respective experiences could well make the difference in conquering the French market and beyond.
Who’s next?
The question now is: who will be the next to join the ranks of BYD? With such momentum and a clear desire to attract recognised talents, the Chinese manufacturer could well continue to achieve remarkable feats. All eyes are on this team that has taken charge of the French network. BYD seems ready to take on the challenge and secure a prominent place in the European market.
