Dennis Kinzelmann Appointed CEO of Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks and Global Defence Business

Dennis Kinzelmann will become the CEO of Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks and oversee Daimler Truck's global Defence business starting January 1, 2026. He succeeds Franziska Cusumano, who will become CEO of Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation in Japan on April 1, 2026.

Kinzelmann, 45, will be responsible for the development, production, and sales of the Unimog, Econic, and Zetros models at the Wörth site, as well as custom vehicle modifications in Molsheim. He will report directly to Achim Puchert, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Trucks.

Daimler Truck aims to enhance its engagement in the Defence sector by investing in product development and expanding capabilities. Kinzelmann has been with Daimler since 2003, holding various leadership roles, most recently as Head of HV Battery and Fuel Cell Development.