Former Porsche Cars North America president and CEO Kjell Gruner has joined electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian Automotive as chief commercial officer and president of business growth, Rivian announced Sept. 1.
Gruner reports directly to Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe and oversees the company’s commercial functions, including sales, marketing, customer care, delivery, service and fleet.
Before his tenure with Porsche’s North American operation, Gruner was the German automaker’s global vice president marketing and chief marketing officer, responsible for development of the global Porsche brand, marketing and product.
He has also served as director of strategy for Mercedes-Benz.
“We will rely on Kjell’s talent and experience as we position ourselves for growth domestically and internationally, the launch of a new platform in R2 at a new facility, and the continued success of our commercial vehicle line,” Scaringe said in a news release. “I look forward to working closely together as we tackle this next great wave of opportunity.”
Gruner said he is coming to Rivian at an “important time in its success story,” as the company has created “an exceptional brand” with its R1T pickup, R1S SUV and “category-defining” commercial van.
“As we build a strong brand,” he said, “I look forward to charting paths into new markets, building new partnerships and customer experiences, and engaging with our community while constantly embracing a clear and consistent strategy for the future.”
