Torsten Mueller will take over as Rolls-Royce’s new chief executive from March 2010.

He will take over from the retiring Tom Purves who is stepping down after a distinguished 25 years at the BMW Group.

Mr Purves oversaw the manufacturer’s launch of the Ghost model series and was praised by Rolls-Royce chairman, Ian Robertson, for leaving the company in a strong position as it enters a new decade.

Mr Mueller has led global product management for the group since April 2008 but has spent more than 20 years at the group and managed the re-launching of the iconic MINI brand.

Mr Robertson, who Mr Mueller will continue to report to, said: "He is the perfect candidate to lead Rolls-Royce Motor Cars into a period of expansion – having not only a successful track record as a manager, but also a feel for the unique attributes of a traditional brand."

The Ministry of Defence recently agreed a deal for Rolls-Royce to supply it with jet engines in a partnership worth £865 million.

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