by Stellantis, one of the world’s largest car manufacturers, is headed for a change of the guard at the top a bit earlier than anyone expected. Earlier this week, CEO Carlos Tavares tendered his resignation immediately, despite his retirement pending in early 2026
A statement released on the Stellantis website suggests that differences in strategy between the board and CEO led to the move, in addition to financial struggles and a dwindling business:
Stellantis’ Senior Independent Director, Henri de Castries, commented: “Stellantis’ success since its creation has been rooted in a perfect alignment between the reference shareholders, the Board and the CEO. However, in recent weeks different views have emerged which have resulted in the Board and the CEO coming to today’s decision.”
This is another somewhat sudden change at a company that’s dealt with a lot of change this year, including layoffs, that bears analyzing. A big shift at the top of an organization offers opportunities for communicators to recalibrate their strategies and figure out what’s working and what might need improvement going forward.
Board comms during a major leadership change
One of the first things you’ll notice in the statement about Tavares’ departure is how de Castries worded the reasoning for it — “different views have emerged”. This clear sign of a difference in shareholder opinions that could be mitigated with better investor relations and board communications.
Montieth Illingworth, CEO of Montieth and Co., said that every organization must constantly update leadership transition plans as the business evolves. He emphasized that the board can help ease the company into working with its next leader.
“The central goal of these plans is to be as proactive as possible in the circumstances, be credible in your disclosures, and convey that the situation is in control with the board of directors at the helm,” Illingworth said. “In terms of communications proficiency, Stellantis has done a good job here with the board stepping directly into the limelight to explain their role.”
There’s also the mention of “alignment” to unpack. Organizations function best when leadership, the board, and employees are all aligned in action and mission. That term was an acknowledgment that integrated corporate communications function is what Stellantis requires to keep moving forward with its mission and values intact.
The full article can be found at Ragan Communications.