BMW M Names Alexander Karajlovic Head of Development as Dirk Häcker Retires

The longtime M engineer steps in to steer the performance division’s move toward electrified models while preserving its combustion expertise.

Overview

Karajlovic succeeds Häcker, who departs after 37 years at BMW and 11 years leading development at BMW M, according to official statements.
His career includes serving as project manager for the XM and vice president for the M product line before roles in BMW Group Development.
Media reports indicate BMW M is developing an all-electric M3 targeted for 2027, alongside continued twin‑turbo six‑cylinder variants.
Reporting also points to updates to the S58 and S68 engines for Euro 7 compliance and at least one plug‑in hybrid, with a facelifted M760e said to be due next year.
The leadership change comes as BMW M cites sustained growth, with 2024 marking a 13th consecutive sales increase and further gains reported through September 2025, and follows BMW Group’s announcement that Milan Nedeljković will become CEO in May 2026.