As easily as the former head of Mercedes-Benz’s US head was removed, his replacement hasn’t been announced yet. Not that there aren’t qualified candidates who can’t fill that position. However, despite former CEO Lieb’s transgressions, the fact is that Mercedes-Benz USA performed reasonably well under his stewardship. And apparently, he was well regarded and appreciated by the dealer network.

But now, the final candidates have reportedly been narrowed down to five serious contenders who have top-level responsibilities in countries as diverse as China, Canada, Turkey, England and Australia. The majority of the candidates worked their way up the Mercedes ladder in the carmaker’s sales divisions. The Mercedes board is keen to make a good decision on this matter, as North America is the second biggest market for Mercedes after Germany. All these candidates are effective where they are now, and top management isn’t keen to fill a slot while creating a gap in another area.