Stellantis Names Antonio Filosa as New Chief Executive Officer

Stellantis has appointed Antonio Filosa, currently its North American chief operating officer, as the company’s new chief executive officer.

Filosa will officially assume the CEO role on June 23, succeeding Carlos Tavares, who stepped down unexpectedly in December following a sharp decline in profits, falling sales, and challenges in the US market.

Filosa, an Italian national with over 25 years of experience at Stellantis and its predecessor companies, previously served as CEO of the Jeep brand before becoming North America COO in October 2024. Earlier this year, he also took on the role of global chief quality officer. His appointment comes amid a difficult period for the multinational automaker, which owns brands including Jeep, Dodge, Fiat, Chrysler, and Peugeot.

Chairman John Elkann, who has led the company since Tavares’ resignation, will continue in his role as executive chairman. Elkann praised Filosa’s deep knowledge of Stellantis and the automotive industry, emphasizing that his understanding of the company’s people and culture equips him well for this pivotal leadership phase.

Stellantis is currently facing significant challenges, including a 14% drop in first-quarter net revenues year-on-year and increased uncertainty caused by shifting US trade policies. The company recently withdrew its full-year financial guidance amid concerns about the impact of tariffs and trade tensions on its global supply chains and North American operations.

Filosa’s leadership will focus on reviving the company’s performance, especially in the US market, where sales have declined sharply. Analysts note that the company may also need to streamline its extensive portfolio of 14 brands to enhance profitability and competitiveness.

While some investors expressed reservations about Filosa’s relatively limited experience in North America, others welcomed his operational expertise and familiarity with the local market and culture. Industry observers view his appointment as a move toward strengthening Stellantis’ ability to navigate both immediate challenges and longer-term transitions, including the shift toward electrification.

Filosa’s appointment follows a period of strategic reshuffling and is seen as a step toward stabilizing the company’s position amid a global auto industry marked by volatility and trade disputes. An extraordinary shareholder meeting will be held shortly for Filosa to be formally elected to Stellantis’ board as an executive director.

Shares of Milan-listed Stellantis have fallen nearly 27% so far this year.

CNBC, Reuters, the Financial Times, and Bloomberg contributed to this report.