In a recent development, Nikola Corporation announced the departure of Michael Lohscheller, who has been serving as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Effective immediately, Lohscheller will step down from his position and as a member of the Board of Directors, with his term officially ending on August 31, 2023. The decision comes as a result of a family health matter, leading Lohscheller to return to Europe. However, he will continue to support the company during the transition period in an advisory capacity until the end of September.
During his tenure, Lohscheller played a pivotal role in shaping a more focused business plan to establish Nikola as a leading player in zero-emissions transportation. Under his leadership, significant milestones were achieved, including driving sales momentum for the battery-electric truck, doubling retail sales from Q1 to Q2 2023. Additionally, he supported the successful launch of the Class 8 hydrogen fuel cell electric truck, generating considerable customer demand. Further advancements were made in the organization’s production capabilities in Coolidge, Ariz., and a substantial reduction in cash burn by over 30% from Q1 to Q2 2023 through business re-focusing. The company’s focus on the core North American marketplace and the establishment of a new global hydrogen energy brand, HYLA, were also notable achievements.
In light of Lohscheller’s departure, Steve Girsky, who has been serving as Chairman of the Board since September 2020, will now take on the role of CEO. Girsky brings with him over 30 years of experience working with corporate board executives, labor leaders, OEM leaders, suppliers, dealers, and national policymakers. His track record of translating vision and strategy into successful execution makes him a valuable addition to the leadership team. Girsky expressed his gratitude for Lohscheller’s contributions and dedication to Nikola’s progress and mission.
Lohscheller himself expressed pride and honor in serving as Nikola’s CEO, working alongside dedicated colleagues committed to driving zero-emissions transportation. He expressed his confidence in Nikola’s future and its ability to maintain its leadership position in the industry.
With Girsky taking on the CEO role, he will also remain on the Board of Directors. In this context, Steve Shindler, a director since October 2020, will assume the position of Chairman of the Board. Shindler brings extensive corporate financial management and strategic planning experience to the table. He has previously held c-suite positions, including CEO of NII from 2012 until August 2017, where he successfully transformed the company into a leading wireless provider. Shindler expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to expand his role within Nikola and to work closely with the company’s experienced leadership team to support their vision for the future.
The company believes that these changes in leadership will ensure continued growth, innovation, and successful execution of Nikola’s strategy, ultimately serving their valued partners, customers, and suppliers effectively. As the company looks ahead, it remains focused on achieving its milestones and further establishing itself as a prominent player in the zero-emissions transportation sector.
