In this article, well-known Stellantis executive Tim Kuniskis is returning to the automaker effective immediately, as per information obtained by CNBC. Kuniskis, who retired from the automaker in May, will once again lead the company’s Ram Trucks brand, according to two sources familiar with the decision. These sources, who requested anonymity to discuss the move, mentioned that the company’s leadership team informed employees about the decision earlier on Monday.
His return follows Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares’ unexpected resignation from the automaker about a week ago due to issues in the North American market. The company confirmed the appointment in an emailed statement, stating, “Today’s changes will enable us to operate in a structure that will drive the best outcomes for the region, unlock significant potential and win in the market. A main lever is for the Ram brand to have its CEO singularly focused on that brand.”
Kuniskis, who has overseen various brands of the carmaker in North America, previously led the company’s Ram and Dodge brands before retiring. He is widely recognized for his leadership at Dodge, particularly for his role in developing Dodge’s high-performance Hellcat models and being known as “the unofficial spokesman” for American muscle cars.
Under Kuniskis’ leadership, Dodge reestablished itself as a quintessential American muscle car brand with vehicles like the Challenger and Charger Hellcat models, as well as the controversial Challenger Demon drag race cars. He also introduced the Hellcat-powered Ram TRX pickup truck.
Kuniskis’ return coincided with other changes in the automaker’s North American operations. Chris Feuell, who previously led the Ram and Chrysler brands, will now oversee Chrysler and Alfa Romeo; Jeff Kommor will take charge of North American sales; and Larry Dominique, who was in charge of Alfa Romeo for North America, will be leaving the company.
Despite overall market growth, Stellantis’ U.S. sales faced challenges under Tavares’ leadership, with a 17% year-over-year decline for the company through the third quarter, including a 24% sales drop for Ram.
