Germans run their companies with military precision and there are well defined age expectations. A president of the M division cannot be older than 60 years, so Dr. Nitschke is put to pasture just in time for his big birthday. By the way, don't be quick to judge the new M president just because he is coming from Audi - you can be sure BMW hired the best man for the job. It's a sign of the times that the job went to a close competitor rather than a BMW faithful. Loyalty is not valued as much these days even in German companies that used to place huge emphasis on it.
Oh, and the M4 unveiling event was the only time I've seen guys ask great-looking girls to get out of the way so they could take a picture... of the car, without anyone obstructing the direct view to it. BMW geeks are a special breed...Make that VERY special. I bet Dr. Nitschke was glad to see the excitement his unit generated with BMW enthusiasts that night!