Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
has announced that Giles Taylor has been appointed Design Director with
effect from 1 July 2012 and will report to Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior
Vice President BMW Group Design. Taylor replaces Ian Cameron, who
retires from the role he has held since 1999.
After his design
studies in the United Kingdom, Taylor initially gathered experience in
several international design roles. The 44 year-old Briton spent 10
years as an executive designer in the British car industry, acting as
head of design for two model series at Jaguar. He joined the Rolls-Royce
design team in April 2011 as Head of Exterior Design.
Ian Cameron joined the BMW Group in 1992
and held leading design roles for several models, including the 3 Series
model range, the Z8 and the Range Rover. In 1999 he was appointed to
lead the new Rolls‑Royce design team, resulting in the launch of Phantom
in 2003 and all subsequent Phantom and Ghost family models. Whilst Ian
retires from his design role he will remain within the BMW Group until
the onset of his retirement age in April 2013, dedicating his time to
Rolls-Royce global heritage matters as Brand Ambassador within BMW Group
Classic led by Karl Baumer.
Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO of Rolls-Royce
Motor Cars, said “I would like to thank Ian Cameron for his contribution
to the resurgence of the Rolls-Royce marque. His legendary design
capabilities combined with his passion for the company’s distinguished
heritage have made him an integral part of the success of Rolls-Royce
Motor Cars since the brand was acquired by the BMW Group. As his
successor, Giles Taylor has a deep knowledge of emotive brands in the
luxury segment and a proven track record, and is the perfect choice to
lead the Rolls-Royce design team to future success.”
Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President
BMW Group Design, said, “On behalf of BMW Group Design, I would like to
extend my gratitude and appreciation for Ian’s years of leadership and
contribution to the Rolls-Royce brand. His deep understanding of
Rolls-Royce values and history has proven invaluable.
Giles Taylor brings with him exceptional
design skills and a comprehensive understanding of British values and
heritage that are so crucial to Rolls-Royce; I have no doubt that he
will successfully continue to develop the outstanding design ethos so
successfully created by Ian Cameron and his team.”
Ian Cameron said, “I feel very privileged
to have led the design team for the renaissance of this most prestigious
company and I am delighted to continue my relationship with Rolls-Royce
in my new role as Brand Ambassador.”
