Jennifer Scantling – Mercedes-Benz USA

Mercedes-Benz, a name synonymous with luxury and innovation, has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. Many people know that the brand originated from two pioneering figures in the automotive industry: Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler. However, only some are aware that the first true automobile was built and patented by Karl Benz in 1885, the Benz Patent Motorwagen, which was powered by a single-cylinder four-stroke engine. This revolutionary vehicle marked the beginning of the automotive era. Still, it wasn’t until 1926 that the Mercedes and Benz brands officially merged to form Mercedes-Benz, creating a legacy that combined engineering excellence with luxury.

Jennifer Scantling | Mercedes-Benz USA | Associate General Counsel

Today, the brand continues to move forward and push the envelope with the help of people like Jennifer Scantling, associate general counsel at Mercedes-Benz USA. Scantling, working out of the company’s American headquarters in Georgia, is a crucial force behind its business strategy, driving its ambitious innovations while ensuring legal integrity across every department. With over 20 years of legal experience, Scantling is head of the Commercial Affairs Department and plays a pivotal role in the company’s cross-functional operations.

From logistics and technology to marketing, human resources, IT, customer service operations, real estate, sales, finance and more, every vendor engagement flows through her team, making her the keystone of deal-making at Mercedes-Benz. In her tenure, only a few deals have been rejected outright, a testament to her expertise in managing risk while supporting the company’s progressive agenda.

“There’s always risk,” Scantling tells Vanguard during an interview in September. “But that’s just part of the business. The key is finding the best way forward.”

Scantling’s ability to enable business strategy through her legal acumen is at the heart of her role. Her influence spans every facet of Mercedes-Benz USA’s operations, and she regularly collaborates with C-suite executives to turn innovative ideas into reality. Whether securing celebrity partnerships, advising on joint ventures or facilitating technological advancements in the vehicles themselves, Scantling ensures that the company stays ahead of the curve and mitigates risk at every turn.

Steering the future of electric mobility

Mercedes-Benz, known for its pioneering spirit, has made significant strides in electric mobility and autonomous driving technology. Scantling has been instrumental in steering these initiatives to success. In 2023, she was deeply involved in the rollout of the company’s new open electric vehicle charger network across the U.S. This project, in partnership with renewable energy firm MN8 Energy, aims to establish over 400 hubs with over 2,500 high-power chargers by 2027. This network will serve Mercedes-Benz vehicles and be accessible to other brands, exemplifying the company’s forward-thinking approach to electric mobility infrastructure. Scantling’s legal expertise helped navigate the complexities of this massive joint venture, which is vital to the company’s broader goal of accelerating the adoption of EVs.

Scantling’s contributions to the company extend beyond compliance and contract management. She’s an essential player in shaping how the company approaches its technological future, ensuring that every aspect of the brand’s development aligns with its commitment to innovation and excellence. Mercedes-Benz vehicles, increasingly described as technology on wheels, integrate more sophisticated software and connectivity than ever before. From overseeing SaaS agreements to ensuring data privacy and managing the contracts behind the advanced MBUX infotainment system, Scantling ensures that every tech-driven initiative is legally sound and strategically aligned with the company’s vision.

Building the legal foundation for efficiency and innovation

Scantling’s impact is not limited to high-level technology deals. She also leads efforts to streamline internal processes, tighten contract language, and develop tools that empower business units to operate more efficiently. This hands-on approach has made her an indispensable partner to her colleagues, providing them with the legal framework and strategic guidance to bring their innovative ideas to life. Scantling’s leadership is felt throughout the organization, where she mentors her legal team, fosters collaboration, and drives solutions that balance ambition with risk management.

“I truly care about the company,” Scantling says, “I don’t just do this because it’s my job; I truly feel like I’m a part of Mercedes-Benz, and I want it to be successful .”

Her passion for the brand, coupled with her ability to navigate the complexities of the automotive and legal landscapes, has made her a trusted advisor to the entire organization. With every deal that crosses her desk, Scantling operates with integrity, ensuring that the company’s innovative ambitions are met with sound legal strategies that safeguard its long-term success.

As Mercedes-Benz continues expanding its electric and autonomous offerings, Scantling remains at the forefront, ensuring that each project adheres to its legacy of excellence. Her vision for 2024 and beyond includes further streamlining processes, enhancing collaboration across departments, and pushing for greater innovation, all while upholding the legal standards that have made Mercedes-Benz a global leader.

A passion for in-house law

Scantling’s interest in law stemmed from her desire to be involved in an organization, providing support and driving its success from within. Unlike many of her peers, she never had an interest in working at a law firm. Instead, she was drawn to the idea of becoming an in-house lawyer, where she could truly understand the business and contribute to its strategic goals. Scantling pursued her passion by earning a degree from Boston University and a law degree from American University Washington College of Law.

After three years in private practice, Scantling transitioned to in-house work, spending eight years as assistant general counsel and compliance officer at CitationAir by Cessna. In March 2014, she joined Mercedes-Benz USA, initially overseeing commercial affairs. Her responsibilities quickly expanded to include contracts, real estate, antitrust, corporate governance, and commercial affairs team management.

In July 2017, Scantling was promoted to her current position as head of the Commercial Affairs Department, solidifying her role as a key leader. Her ability to streamline processes and align legal strategies with business goals has made her indispensable to Mercedes-Benz USA.

“Effective interaction between business and law ensures that legal strategies not only protect but also empower business growth, innovation, and long-term success,” Scantling says.