Our Experts

Our world-class team of over 500 automotive experts, editors and data scientists turn data into insights and action for our customers' businesses.

Combining sophisticated statistical analysis and algorithms with local human expertise, they create the most reliable pricing insights available in Europe, in 22 countries, daily.

car

Our world-class data scientists

Our highly respected teams of PhDs and Senior Analysts build and maintain industry-leading methodologies and machine learning, to provide depth and accuracy.

highway

Our leading specification teams

Our highly experienced industry experts curate and standardise manufacturer specification, equipment, build rules and price lists in 22 countries across Europe and Australia.

car

Our best-in-class valuation experts

Dedicated teams of automotive experts analyse and interpret market observations - from auction houses and car lots to online portals - across all of our markets.

Dr Sarah Walkley

Chief Research Officer

With a PhD and 20 years’ experience in research and B2B publishing, Sarah has a track record of using market research to identify opportunities for profitable growth. Prior to joining Autovista Group in 2015, Sarah spent 15 years with Informa Business Information in Editorial, then as Business Development and Research and Development Director, where she initiated new products, and managed the business planning process. At Autovista Group, she works with customers to understand their current and future business information needs, shaping new product development. Sarah ensures that our development work is driven by what customers really need.

Dr. Christof Engelskirchen

Chief Economist

A highly-regarded automotive industry thought leader, Christof holds degrees from the European Business School and the University of Pittsburgh. His experience includes seven years as a management consultant in a leading consulting firm before joining Autovista Group in 2009 – first as Business Development Manager and then as OEM Sector Director. Prior to his appointment to Autovista Group’s Chief Economist, he held the MD position for our Car To Market, Consulting and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)-solutions business unit.

Luis Fernandez

Head of Repair Data

Luis joined Autovista Group in 2006 and has vast automotive experience, in-depth market knowledge and a deep understanding of international vehicle damage assessment systems, repair estimate systems, and automotive repair methods and standards.
He is responsible for ensuring that Autovista Group’s repair data products meet customer needs now and in the future.  During his career he has held both regional and international positions, honed his industry knowledge and successfully worked with cross-functional international teams.
 

Markus Halonen

Head of Research, Statistics and Data Analysis

Markus is the world’s leading expert on used car price statistical analysis. His career has been a progression from data scientist, developer and statistical programmer to talented team leader and business strategist, whose deep understanding of data analytics in the automotive market enables him to help his team with problem solving, creative thinking and NPD. He founded and perfected Autovista Group’s statistical models and has tirelessly worked to improve accuracy in valuations.  He holds a Master's Degree in Econometrics and has published a number of research papers on automotive pricing, general retail, and price trends.

Roland Strilka

Director of Valuations

Roland uses in-depth knowledge of the automotive market and his international insurance experience to shape market insights for our customers. He is a research professional with a Master’s Degree in Communication Science. Prior to joining Autovista Group in 2014, Roland worked across the automotive, industrial, and technology and telecoms sectors for GfK AT, having helped start their industrial market research division. At Autovista Group, Roland provides insights and valuation, product creation and development, thought leadership and sales support across the business.

Samuel Keates

Chief Content Officer

Samuel has in-depth knowledge and experience in providing specification data that is aligned to customer needs. An industry-leading expert on WLTP (Worldwide harmonised Light vehicles Test Procedure), he is currently focused on Autovista Group's transition to the new WLTP for fuel consumption and emissions data, ensuring all of the necessary developments are made on our products and systems across our markets. He sets a Group-wide standard for specification data and provides highly-respected thought leadership in the area of vehicle specifications and emissions.

Sonja Nehls

Managing Director - Car To Market

Sonja is an influential industry expert with extensive automotive experience, impressive industry contacts – including major OEMS who utilise her expertise in launches and at industry events – and a degree in International Business Administration. Before joining Autovista Group in 2013, Sonja worked for Goodyear Dunlop and Volkswagen Accessories with a focus on marketing and event management. In her current role, she leads the business to deliver high quality new launch advice to all major manufacturers across Europe.