Stellantis overhauls leadership team, appoints new head for Europe

Just days after appointing a new Chief Financial Officer in a move that seemed to signal the end of a period of adjustment, Stellantis has once again announced a major overhaul of its leadership team. Unveiled amidst what the company calls positive momentum, this new wave of appointments reshapes the executive structure, with a particularly significant impact on the European region. The stated goal is clear: to position the company for success ahead of its updated strategy presentation, scheduled for 2026, by placing key talents in strategic roles.

A new face to lead Europe

The most significant change for the European market is undoubtedly the transition of Jean-Philippe Imparato from his role as head of the Enlarged Europe region, a position he held for only one year. Known for his successful tenures at the helm of Peugeot and, more recently, Alfa Romeo, Imparato will now fully dedicate his efforts to his role as CEO of Maserati, tasked with continuing the revival of the prestigious trident brand. He will also oversee the Stellantis & You retail division, reporting to his successor.

To fill this crucial position, Stellantis has promoted a seasoned internal executive: Emanuele Cappellano. His responsibilities have been significantly expanded, as he is now appointed head of the Enlarged Europe region and European Brands, while also retaining his current leadership of the Stellantis Pro One business unit. This division, dedicated to commercial vehicles, has been a notable success story for the group. Mr. Cappellano’s career path demonstrates his deep understanding of the company's inner workings. As the former head of Stellantis South America, he was also a key figure during the group's foundational mergers—first between Fiat and Chrysler in Europe, and later the pivotal merger between FCA and Groupe PSA that created Stellantis. His extensive experience in finance, strategy, and business development across multiple continents makes him a versatile and strategic leader to navigate the complex and highly competitive European landscape. Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa commented on the appointments, highlighting the company’s focus on "promoting exceptional internal and external talents to leadership positions to ensure the future success of our company."

A broadly renewed leadership team

This reorganization extends far beyond Europe, with several other strategic changes announced to clarify regional responsibilities and strengthen key areas of expertise. Herlander Zola, previously head of commercial operations in Brazil, will succeed Emanuele Cappellano as the leader of the South America region. The Middle East & Africa (MEA) region gains prominence with its head, Samir Cherfan, joining the top-tier Stellantis Leadership Team (SLT). Similarly, the China and Asia-Pacific regions are being consolidated under the leadership of Grégoire Olivier.

Notable changes have also been made in global functional roles. Francesco Ciancia will join the company from Mercedes-Benz on November 1st as the new head of Global Manufacturing, replacing Arnaud Deboeuf, who is leaving to pursue other opportunities. Finally, in a high-profile move for the company's creative direction, Ralph Gilles, an iconic figure in the design of the group's American brands, has been promoted to Global Head of Design, also joining the SLT. These moves follow the previously announced departure of Philippe de Rovira.

The updated Stellantis Leadership Team reporting directly to CEO Antonio Filosa is now composed as follows:

• Antonio Filosa, CEO and North America & American Brands.

• Emanuele Cappellano, Enlarged Europe, European Brands & Stellantis Pro One.

• Herlander Zola, South America.

• Samir Cherfan, Middle East & Africa and Micromobility.

• Grégoire Olivier, China and Asia-Pacific.

• Davide Mele, Product Planning.

• Ned Curic, Product Development & Technology.

• Sébastien Jacquet, Quality.

• Monica Genovese, Purchasing.

• Scott Thiele, Supply Chain.

• Francesco Ciancia, Manufacturing (effective November 1).

• Joao Laranjo, Chief Financial Officer.

• Xavier Chéreau, Human Resources.

• Clara Ingen-Housz, Corporate Affairs & Communications.

• Ralph Gilles, Design.

In conclusion, the round of executive appointments at Stellantis has resumed after only a brief period of calm. This reorganization appears to consolidate the leadership team around profiles with roots in the former FCA group, as executives from the former PSA are becoming increasingly rare in the highest positions. As the company prepares to unveil its 2026 strategic plan, one hopes that this new structure will bring much-needed stability. The success of this future plan is paramount, and each leader will require the time and resources to fully focus on strengthening and turning around the group, for the benefit of all its storied brands, including our beloved Citroën.