KTM Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

KTM has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, investment, and product development.

Driven by innovation, KTM is dedicated to manufacturing high-performance motorcycles and sports cars, fostering a culture of excellence and pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering.

Leadership Roles at KTM

  • Chief Executive Officer - Benson Bestmann
  • President, Leaphart Investments - Kelvin Leaphart
  • Founder & President - Mitsuharu Shimizu
  • President - Arthur Kienle
  • Benson Bestmann - Chief Executive Officer

    Benson Bestmann, the Chief Executive Officer at KTM, directs the overarching corporate strategy and operational execution. Overseeing global market penetration, Bestmann ensures alignment with the company's mission of producing premium motorcycles and sports cars. This leadership role involves driving innovation across all departments, from research and development to manufacturing and sales. By optimizing resource allocation and fostering cross-functional collaboration, Benson Bestmann directly impacts the company's competitive positioning and financial performance. Ultimately, Bestmann secures KTM's long-term growth and market leadership through decisive strategic planning and execution.

    Kelvin Leaphart - President, Leaphart Investments

    Kelvin Leaphart, the President, Leaphart Investments at KTM, spearheads strategic financial planning and investment initiatives. Managing the company's capital allocation, Leaphart ensures robust financial health and supports expansion efforts. This critical position involves identifying new investment opportunities and optimizing existing portfolios to enhance shareholder value. By cultivating strong relationships with financial institutions and stakeholders, Kelvin Leaphart directly contributes to KTM's sustained profitability and market expansion. Ultimately, Leaphart drives financial stability and growth, enabling the company to pursue ambitious product development and market reach objectives.
    Kelvin Leaphart

    Mitsuharu Shimizu - Founder & President

    Mitsuharu Shimizu, the Founder & President at KTM, provides foundational leadership and strategic vision. Guiding the company's core values and long-term direction, Shimizu ensures the enduring legacy of KTM's commitment to performance and quality. This role involves overseeing key strategic partnerships and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across the organization. By championing the company's original mission, Mitsuharu Shimizu directly influences product development and brand identity. Ultimately, Shimizu's enduring leadership ensures KTM remains at the forefront of the motorcycle and sports car industry, upholding its reputation for excellence and innovation.

    Arthur Kienle - President

    Arthur Kienle, the President at KTM, drives operational excellence and product innovation. Overseeing the manufacturing and engineering divisions, Kienle ensures the highest standards of quality and performance in all KTM vehicles. This leadership position involves managing complex production cycles and implementing cutting-edge technologies to enhance efficiency and product capabilities. By fostering a collaborative environment between design and production teams, Arthur Kienle directly contributes to the timely delivery of market-leading motorcycles and sports cars. Ultimately, Kienle's focus on operational efficiency and product superiority solidifies KTM's position as a premier manufacturer in the global automotive sector.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding KTM Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads KTM?
    KTM is led by Benson Bestmann (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Kelvin Leaphart (President, Leaphart Investments) and Mitsuharu Shimizu (Founder & President).
    Who is part of KTM’s executive team?
    The executive team of KTM includes leaders such as Benson Bestmann (Chief Executive Officer), Kelvin Leaphart (President, Leaphart Investments), Mitsuharu Shimizu (Founder & President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does KTM have?
    KTM has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in KTM’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of KTM includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President, Leaphart Investments, Founder & President, President.