Marcel De Rycker
After achieving three ambitious life goals set in a friendly challenge with an uncle when he was younger, Marcel De Rycker has gone on to build an impressive career in the automotive industry.
As a young adult, Marcel was driven by a deep commitment to earning an MBA in the United States, obtaining a Private Pilot’s Licence, and conquering the highest mountain in the Alps.
He achieved his MBA from the University of Hartford in 1989, with a double major in Finance and Industrial Marketing.
His passion for flying led him to earn his pilot’s licence, logging over 750 flight hours.
His third goal took him to Mont Blanc, where he has completed multiple ascents, including a memorable solo climb.
Originally focused on a career in IT, Marcel began teaching at university level but soon found himself pivoting toward the automotive industry.
Born in Germany to a Belgian father and holding French citizenship, he remarked, “I ended up working in the international automotive industry quite unexpectedly, actually.
“My initial focus was on IT. However, my mechanical engineering background and German language skills eventually led me to roles with BMW, the Volkswagen Group, Daimler AG and PSA, where I held various global positions in business development, marketing and sales.”
Marcel also held the position of Head of European Sales at Tevva Hydrogen Electric Trucks, where he contributed to the development and manufacturing of zero-emission medium-duty vehicles.
Looking back on this stage of his life, Marcel’s career highlights included overseeing global business development for Mercedes-Benz’s B2B sector, serving as Managing Director for Peugeot Germany, and leading major contract wins for two innovative startups – one in extended warranties and the other revolutionising car inspections through artificial intelligence and blockchain technology with Proovstation.
In June 2024, Marcel joined leading zero emission bus pioneer Wrightbus, attracted by its commitment to innovation.
“With a strong background in business to business development, I was well-prepared to contribute to Wrightbus’s robust hydrogen bus initiative, particularly in Germany, France, Benelux and throughout Europe,” Marcel said.
“Their commitment to quality and rapid innovation made it an exciting opportunity, and it’s been a privilege to be part of this remarkable journey.”
As General Manager for Europe, Marcel has led the business development for the company’s diverse bus range, including the 6m and 9m BEV models, the flagship 12m hydrogen buses, and future coach products.
“Our team has seen great success with the 12m hydrogen buses, having secured around 100 orders in the past 18 months, on top of already 31 deliveries in Germany, which is very encouraging for our growth trajectory,” he said.
Marcel is now leading the European team as Managing Director in establishing the new Rightech brand for Wrightbus’s trucks in Europe, as well as spearheading the sales for the future products to come.
“My aim is to establish Rightech as a trusted name in Europe, one that embodies the values aligned with the Bamford Group’s ongoing initiatives and commitment to innovation and sustainability,” he added.
