In a terse announcement today, Stellantis (NYSE: STLA) said it is “replacing” its chief operating officer in North America with its current president of Mexico on 1 February,, Carlos Zarlenga will replace Mark Stewart “to leverage further improvements in Stellantis’ performance in North America and unleash the iconic American brands portfolio potential in close cooperation with their CEOs. Stellantis sales declined last year in North America and inventory was building before the UAW strike shut down plants. (AutoInformed: UAW Sweep – Stellantis Contract Approved by Members; Fleet or Fire Sale? SIXT to Buy 250,000 Stellantis Vehicles)

“In the very demanding North American market with many obstacles to overcome in order to foster the performance of the Company, Carlos Zarlenga is the best leader among our talent pool to replace Mark Stewart and to drive the change in our business model towards electrification in the region. Carlos Zarlenga has demonstrated his ability to bring together and unite diverse teams and to deliver the expected results,” said Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis. “I would like to thank Mark Stewart for his contribution to this role after a three-year cycle, corresponding to the date of creation of Stellantis and I wish him the best in his new position.”