The newly joined GM of Audi Bahrain, Neil Keane, shares what to expect from the company over the coming years, which Audi model matches his personality and what’s on his playlist.

Firstly, congratulations on your new role as GM of Audi Bahrain. Bahrain’s passenger cars market has grown exponentially over the years. What innovative strategies or initiatives is Audi planning to introduce in 2024 to address customer demand?
Thank you. In the next two years, we will see Audi announce 20 new models including their variants and I am excited that I will be able to introduce these into Bahrain. I am also looking forward to being engaged in strengthening the charging infrastructure here for the evolving EV market and our electric vehicle range.

You’ve had more than 20 years’ experience in the luxury automotive industry, what’s your secret to success and management style?
I am of the opinion that we are all as important as each other in our business; we simply perform different roles. The success I have had in the industry has come from working together with the team to create the best culture and environment for staff and our customers. Empowering staff to make decisions and grow in the business builds strength and I take pride in seeing my team develop. Having started out as a trainee myself, in 2004, I understand how important this can be.

It’s been almost six months since you came to the island. What are you most enjoying about Bahrain?
People are truly kind here – the sincereness of those I have met, offering to support me and my family to settle in, is a testament to the nature of those living in Bahrain. My wife, Jo, and daughters, Evie and Connie, joined me at the end of January and, as we are a close family, I am looking forward to getting out and about to explore more together.

If you were to compare your personality with one of the Audi cars, which model would you most likely be and why?
I would compare myself to the Q8 E-tron as my mind can be very fast-paced but I like to go about my day efficiently and effectively.

Which car are you driving at the moment and what’s on your music playlist?
I have been fortunate to drive the RS7 this week and this vehicle demonstrates phenomenal engineering. The presence of the car on the road is stunning.
Black Coffee is on my playlist: It was great to see him recently in Bahrain too. ✤