Rivian Manufacturing Chief Heads to Stellantis Ahead of EV Push

The next few years will be make-or-break for Rivian. The automaker plans to release a handful of new models over that time, but it will do so without its current VP of manufacturing. Tim Fallon is leaving the company for “greener pastures” at Stellantis, where he will take over the North American head of manufacturing role.

Rivian confirmed Fallon’s departure yesterday. He spent two years at the automaker and 16 years at Nissan before that. Fallon’s move comes at a time when Rivian and Stellantis are hoping to get new models out the door. Rivian is looking to its upcoming R2 and R3 vehicles as its volume sellers going forward.

Stellantis has several new EVs in its pipeline but has struggled with quality and other issues at its U.S. facilities. The company’s North American COO, Carlos Zarlenga, said, “Tim brings his relentless pursuit of operational excellence and strong track record of manufacturing experience, including electric vehicle production, to Stellantis as we enter this critical stage of our transformation. With this year marking the start of our electric vehicle offensive, I have full confidence that Tim’s passion and collaborative spirit will lead the team to deliver the highest quality vehicles for our customers.”

Rivian has seen other executives leave the company and will tap Carlo Materazzo, its current supply chain and logistics VP, to fill Fallon’s role. The company recently paused production of its Amazon delivery van and retooled its Illinois factory to lower production costs, but the next couple of years will be full of challenges that will require a talented manufacturing professional.

[Images: Rivian, Stellantis]

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