Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has appointed Torsten Mueller as its next chief executive officer.

Mueller will assume the role at the end of March 2010 from Tom Purves, who will retire after 25 years service with the BMW Group.

Mueller has held a number of management positions in the sales and marketing division and was instrumental in brand and product management for Mini between 2000 and 2003.

He will continue to report to Ian Robertson, member of the board of management of BMW AG responsible for group sales and marketing and also chairman of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

Purves, who is now retiring, said: “It has been a privilege and an honour to lead Rolls-Royce, particularly at this exciting point in the company’s history.

"I have always felt a special connection with Rolls-Royce, having started my career in the car division and it is very special to be retiring having headed this great company. I have every confidence in the future success of the company in the hands of its new CEO."