Stellantis, the world's fourth-largest automaker, announced a management shake-up as it continues its search for a permanent CEO following the abrupt departure of Carlos Tavares in December.
The interim executive committee, led by Chairman John Elkann, said the CEO selection process is "well under way" and is expected to be finalized in the first half of the year. In the meantime, the company has restructured its leadership to improve efficiency and enhance regional decision-making.
Among the notable changes, Antonio Filosa, head of North American operations and a potential candidate for the CEO role, has been appointed as the global chief for quality. He will step down from his role as head of the Jeep brand, which will now be led by Bob Broderdorf.
Additionally, Alain Favey has been named head of the Peugeot brand, replacing Linda Jackson, who is retiring after years of service under Tavares. Anne Abboud will now lead Stellantis’ Pro One commercial vehicles unit, taking over from Jean-Philippe Imparato, who has been overseeing the company's European operations since October.
The company has also consolidated its software and engineering functions under Chief Engineering and Technology Officer Ned Curic. As part of this restructuring, Chief Software Officer Yves Bonnefont, a long-time executive at Stellantis and former PSA leader, is leaving the company.
“Today's announcements will further simplify our organization and increase our local agility and rigor of execution," Elkann said in a statement.
Stellantis has also granted more authority to regional leaders in product planning, development and industrial and commercial activities. This move aims to streamline operations across its global brands and strengthen decision-making at the local level.
Tavares, who played a crucial role in the 2021 merger of PSA and Fiat Chrysler to create Stellantis, unexpectedly left the company last year following disagreements with major shareholders after a profit warning in September. His departure has prompted the ongoing search for a successor, with industry watchers closely following potential candidates within the company’s leadership ranks.
