Stellantis Taps New CEO

Meet Antonio Filosa

Stellantis has finally named a new CEO, ending a six-month search following Carlos Tavares’s departure. The big chair is now officially reserved for Antonio Filosa. This guy isn’t just any hire — he’s a seasoned vet with over 25 years in the automotive industry, and he’s been around the Stellantis block more than a few times. Filosa’s knack for success and his worldwide experience set him apart as Stellantis moves forward.

The decision to bring Filosa on board was straightforward for Stellantis Executive Chairman, John Elkann. Filosa’s in-depth knowledge of the company and its people proves crucial as Stellantis gears up for its next chapter. Elkann’s confidence got bolstered by watching Filosa’s effective leadership across North and South America, especially during particularly challenging times.

Background

Filosa’s journey started in Naples, Italy in 1973. Joining Fiat Group as a trainee right out of Politecnico di Milano, he quickly climbed the ranks. By 2002, he was back with Fiat after a few sidetracks with Iveco and CNH. His leadership seeds were planted here, covering industrial operations and strategic growth across the Americas. In 2018, he hit the C-suite jackpot as the South American COO for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. His prowess particularly shone during Jeep’s market surge in Brazil, leading to promotions that put him in charge of operations across the Americas.

Hands-on Approach

Filosa isn’t the type to delegate and disappear. Over two decades with Stellantis and Fiat Chrysler have cemented his hands-on reputation. Much of his career unfolded in Brazil, solidifying Fiat’s footprint there. This enthusiasm for leading from the front is no secret — in a self-reflective 2014 Fiat Chrysler video, he stressed the value of learning strategic processes and the motivational people-driven culture at Fiat.

American Focus

Filosa hasn’t been shy about the importance of the U.S. market. Despite hurdles like tariffs, dropping sales, and keeping up with the EV craze, he’s laser-focused on boosting Stellantis’s share Stateside. Recent management moves like bringing Tim Kuniskis and Jeff Kommor back are tuned towards strengthening Stellantis’s position in America.

EV Flexibility

The auto world is buzzing with innovation while tapping into different powertrains. Filosa champions flexibility between electric vehicles (EVs) and internal combustion engines. Lessons from commercial missteps in Europe have guided his approach to keeping options open, especially considering the U.S. market’s readiness for various powertrain options. His belief in bridge technologies like plug-in hybrids remains unshaken, as personally demonstrated by his use of a Grand Cherokee 4xe for his daily commute.

Running a massive, multi-brand conglomerate like Stellantis is no small feat. Antonio Filosa’s impressive track record and holistic approach, especially with balancing various powertrains, put Stellantis in a promising position. There’s no doubting the road ahead is challenging, but if anyone’s steering with confidence and capability, it’s Filosa.