Stellantis, the Filosa era begins with the announcement of the team. Three new Italian managers

Antonio Filosa chose a sober and determined tone for his first day at the helm of Stellantis . The changing of the guard marks the start of a new chapter for the automotive group, at a crucial stage of its industrial and financial journey. It is not just a generational transition - Filosa, 52, is the last executive appointed by Sergio Marchionne - but the beginning of a new era that will have to deal with declining margins, technological challenges and growing geopolitical tensions.

The context in which the new CEO takes office is far from simple: the global automotive industry is facing the transition to electric power at a pace and cost that is putting a strain on financial balances. Stellantis' profits in North America - a traditional cash engine for the group - have slowed over the past year. In Europe, the group still suffers from a fragile position in the higher volume electric segments, while competition from Chinese manufacturers is becoming increasingly aggressive. All this against the backdrop of a US trade policy that, with Donald Trump's return to the White House, risks introducing new barriers and tariffs.

Aware of the complexity of the phase, Filosa has chosen to personally maintain the leadership of North America, in addition to his role as CEO, a sign of the strategic importance of directly presiding over the most profitable market. A dual role that aims to guarantee continuity and focus on American competitive dynamics, which are now also conditioned by growing protectionism and the race of local manufacturers for federally incentivised electric vehicles.

In its first official act, Filosa announced the new Leadership Team: a sign of discontinuity from the Tavares era, but with a strong emphasis on enhancing internal expertise. Confirmed are Doug Ostermann as Chief Financial Officer - now also responsible for M&A and joint ventures - and Ned Curic as Head of Technology and Engineering. Jean-Philippe Imparato will continue to head the European business, which now also includes Maserati. Three Italians join the management team: Emanuele Cappellano (South America and commercial vehicles), Davide Mele (Product Planning) and Monica Genovese (Purchasing). Richard Palmer, a key figure in the Marchionne season, will remain as strategic advisor.

In terms of internal relations, there is no shortage of first discontinuities: Maxime Picat, who had run as an internal candidate for group leadership and was responsible for global purchasing, has left Stellantis. The reorganisation of the team - which follows the one already announced in February - aims at strengthening the decision-making weight of the regional areas and accelerating the adaptation to local markets.