Stefan Merkl boasts extensive expertise in the mobility and automotive sectors, having served at TÜV SÜD since October 2011 where Stefan currently holds the position of Head of Mobility Industry. Responsibilities encompass global operations management, strategic planning, and business development across multiple locations. Previous roles include Vice President Automotive International and Head of Mobility at TÜV SÜD America, where Stefan focused on Connected & Automated Driving and vehicle homologation. Additionally, Stefan has held positions such as Global Head of Automotive Certification & Regulatory Compliance, overseeing worldwide product and market development, and Project Leader at TÜV SÜD China, leading international strategic projects. Stefan's career began with vocational training as a mechatronics technician at INDEX-Werke GmbH & Co. KG. Academic credentials include a Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering & Management and a Bachelor of Engineering in Automotive Engineering from Technische Hochschule Ulm.