Michael Jost has become the latest high-profile executive to join the Silent-Yachts Advisory Board following plans to conclude his roles as Volkswagen’s Head of Group Strategy Product and brand Chief Strategy Officer in May. Jost joins the solar-electric catamaran builder soon after former Tesla executive Jochen Rudat joined its Advisory Board in January.
In addition, Jost and Silent-Yachts have also started a joint venture in Croatia, where a new Silent 62 Tri-Deck demonstrator yacht will be available from early next year.
During his tenure at Volkswagen, Jost was the key figure in developing the group’s expansive electrification plan. The exclusive MEB modular electric drive platform and the radical electric flagship Project Trinity were among his most successful projects.
“It has been more than 10 years that I’ve been building the future of the Volkswagen brand and the group with amazing colleagues,” said Jost. “After smart cars come smart boats, the nautical passion I plan to dedicate myself to with my family. I’m excited to join the growing Silent-Yachts team and help them build a better and sustainable future on the water.”
Before joining Volkswagen in 2015, Jose spent five years as Head of Product Management and Product Strategy with Skoda, having spent 18 years with the BMW Group.