A capable successor
Müller is what Volkswagen needs right now. The former Porsche chief has been a board member for several months.The man, who was born in Chemnitz in what was East Germany, doesn't shy away from conflicts, doesn't beat about the bush when it comes to identifying mistakes and appreciates working in a team.
His name had been floated on several occasions in the past when talking about a possible successor for Martin Winterkorn, but Müller had always brushed aside any suggestions in this direction.
In point of fact, Müller can only be an interim CEO. He's 62 years old and has always emphasized that Volkswagen should consider helping someone younger than him to the top.
However, being older can also be an advantage. Müller doesn't have to prove to anyone that he can be a successful executive as he's already been one for many years. He looks well suited to steer VW into calmer waters.
Anyone who's seen Matthias Müller in front of a Porsche 911 dashboard explaining every technical detail gets an idea of how fascinated the man is with cars. He trained as a toolmaker and later graduated in information technolgy.
It's under his leadership that Porsche has gone from strength to strength, posting record results. And he knows the Volkswagen company inside out, having worked for Audi too.
Management's decision in favor of this experienced auto industry executive would surely be based on that.
But he'll be facing a daunting task. He'll have to fire executives involved in the scandal and introduce a new corporate structure. In this, he cannot be an autocrat like Winterkorn. What's needed now is efficient work in the team as well as dynamic and decisive leadership. The old boys' network doesn't count anymore. Müller will have to clear up the scandal surrounding the manipulated diesel car emission tests with great resolve.
At least that's what he would owe the 600,000 VW employees and customers plus shareholders, who've seen the value of their investment shrinking dramatically.
Müller will have to see to it that no more dirty tricks are employed to fool millions of consumers. Investments in new technologies are required to ensure VW can win back some of the lost trust as a diesel car producer.
Billions of euros will have to be put aside for upcoming litigation and compensation costs in the US alone. Right now, the company boasts a solid financial footing and sits on decent reserve funds, but the risks ahead are enormous. After all, it's unclear right now just how consumers will eventually react to VW's scam.
In a nutshell, the new chief executive will have to give VW a new future - in an earnest, credible and fast way.
Tell us what you think! Leave a message below.