MILAN: Auto giant Stellantis appointed North American Chief Operating Officer Antonio Filosa as its new chief executive Wednesday, ending a monthslong search to fill the company’s leadership void.
The multinational conglomerate, which owns brands including Jeep, Dodge, Fiat, Chrysler and Peugeot, said it will hold an extraordinary shareholder meeting in the coming days to elect Filosa to the board as an executive director.
Filosa will assume CEO powers effective June 23, succeeding Carlos Tavares, who resigned unexpectedly in December following a sharp drop in profit, declining sales and operational challenges in the U.S.
“It is my great honor to be named the CEO of this fantastic company,” Filosa said in a statement, calling it a “pivotal time for our industry.”
A 25-year company veteran, Filosa previously served as Jeep brand CEO before becoming North America COO in October 2024 and chief quality officer in January.
Stellantis recently reported a 14% year-over-year decline in first-quarter net revenue and withdrew its full-year financial guidance, citing uncertainty over the impact of U.S. trade policy under President Donald Trump.
Trade tariff disputes are expected to significantly affect the auto industry, given the globalization of supply chains and reliance on North American manufacturing.
John Elkann, who led an interim executive committee after Tavares’ departure, will remain executive chairman.
“Antonio’s deep understanding of our company, including its people — who he views as our core strength — and of our industry equip him perfectly for this crucial phase,” Elkann said.
Shares of Milan-listed Stellantis are down nearly 27% this year.