Alexandre
The hasty departure of Carlos TavaresCEO of Stellantison December 1, shook the automotive giant. Since then, John ElkannChairman of the Board of Directors, seems determined to take back the reins and calm things down.. With a meticulous agenda, Elkann embarked on a veritable world tour, visiting strategic sites to reassure employees, investors and partners. From America to the Group's Italian roots, operation seduction is well and truly underway.
A high-voltage transition
The departure of Tavareswho has headed Stellantis since its creation in 2021, has left a void to be filled. The resignation, officially motivated by "differences of opinion", revealed tensions at the top and worrying financial resultsparticularly in North America, where sales fell by 18 % in the first half of 2024. Faced with this critical situation, Elkann heads an Interim Executive Committee (IEC) made up of key Group figures such as Jean-Philippe Imparato and Antonio Filosa, to ensure continuity of operations.
But that's not all: Elkann is personally involved in the management of the group. The tour begins in the United States, in Auburn Hills, home of the Jeep and RAM brands, before returning to Europe in Modena, the beating heart of Maserati, the symbol of Italian luxury.
Auburn Hills: repairing American foundations
The first American stop, in Auburn Hills, is not insignificant. This site is at the center of tensions for Stellantis, with problematic inventory management and declining margins on flagship models such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee and RAM 1500. By meeting local teams, Elkann sought to allay concerns and set out an ambitious vision for turning things around. A strong presence for colossal stakes: the North American market remains crucial for Stellantis.
Modena: Maserati returns to its roots
A few days later, Elkann travels to Modena, cradle of Maserati, where he met Santo Ficili, new CEO of the Trident brandas well as the engineering and production teams. In his speech, he praised the commitment of the employees, reminding them that Maserati continues to carry the image of Italian luxury around the world. "Our industry is going through hard times. Staying united is essential", he declared, before personally thanking the teams for their passion and energy.
The visit to Modena is more than just an act of communication. Maserati, though prestigious, faces major strategic challenges, including declining sales and increasing pressure on the automotive luxury segment. By highlighting the brand's efforts to combine tradition and innovation, Elkann is demonstrating its determination to revitalize one of the Group's most emblematic brands.
A strategy to soothe and mobilize
With these moves, John Elkann is sending a clear message: Stellantis won't let recent events throw him off balance. By being out in the field, in contact with the teams, he seeks to instill a new dynamic while reminding them of the Group's fundamental values.
If the seduction operation seems well orchestrated, it's only just begun. The future CEO, who is expected to be appointed in 2025, will face considerable challenges, including restoring market confidence, adapting Stellantis to the demands of electrification, and meeting the expectations of the various regions in which the Group operates.
The task will be a tough one, given the ruins left by Nulos Tavares.
I find it hard to understand, yesterday Tavares was adored, today he's hated! Hasn't he got a big head? I have the impression that his management over the last few years had shown its limits!