Antonio Filosa, the executive currently leading Stellantis’ U.S. operations, has emerged as the top contender to succeed outgoing CEO Carlos Tavares, according to reports from Bloomberg. As Stellantis navigates a critical period marked by financial uncertainty and stakeholder tensions, the choice of its next chief executive is expected to shape the automaker’s strategic direction well into the decade.
A Veteran Insider Rises
Filosa, a Naples, Italy native, was appointed Chief Operating Officer for the Americas in December and also serves as Stellantis’ Chief Quality Officer. His long-standing tenure with the company traces back to Fiat Group in 1999, giving him deep institutional knowledge, particularly from the legacy Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) side of the 2021 Stellantis merger with PSA Group.
Often praised by U.S. dealers for his transparency and pragmatism, Filosa has distinguished himself from his predecessor by emphasizing collaboration and reinvestment in key markets. During the 2025 Detroit Auto Show, he underscored the U.S. as Stellantis’ “biggest priority,” a sentiment that reportedly resonated with many stakeholders.
A Company at a Crossroads
Should Filosa be appointed CEO, he will inherit leadership during a turbulent period for the automaker. Stellantis reported a 14% drop in Q1 revenue this year, attributing the decline partly to “tariff-related uncertainties.” The company subsequently suspended its financial guidance for 2025, signaling deeper structural challenges.
Current Chairman John Elkann, who is leading the CEO selection process, has indicated a final decision will be made by the end of June. While Bloomberg reports the decision is nearing, Stellantis has refrained from confirming any individual appointment. “No decision has been made,” a company spokesperson clarified, adding that the timeline remains unchanged.
Labor Relations Under Scrutiny
Stellantis’ U.S. labor dynamics have become another focal point in the leadership transition. Tensions with the United Auto Workers (UAW) have flared in recent years, especially over perceived underinvestment in domestic facilities. Earlier this year, the UAW had threatened a national strike, citing broken commitments in Belvidere, Illinois, and Detroit.
Recent commitments from Stellantis leadership helped de-escalate the situation, with the union formally withdrawing its grievances. However, UAW leaders remain wary. Kevin Gotinsky, the union’s head of Stellantis operations, voiced concerns this week after the company confirmed plans to produce a midsize truck at the idled Belvidere plant in 2027—but not the anticipated battery plant or Mopar parts distribution center.
Dealer and Market Sentiment
Unlike Tavares—whose tenure saw significant strain in dealer relations—Filosa has been credited with restoring confidence among U.S. dealership networks. His leadership is seen as more market-sensitive, especially at a time when American operations are central to Stellantis’ global profitability.
“Filosa understands the ground realities here better than anyone,” said one Michigan-based Jeep dealer, speaking on condition of anonymity. “He talks less about cost-cutting and more about growth.”
What’s Next
With June fast approaching, the final decision on Stellantis’ next CEO looms large. While Filosa remains the front-runner, sources caution that Chairman Elkann could still opt for a different direction. Regardless of who takes the helm, the next leader will need to stabilize revenues, repair labor relations, and reassert Stellantis’ relevance in a rapidly shifting automotive landscape.
