Swedish car manufacturer Volvo Cars has unveiled an organizational change aimed at increasing speed and reducing complexity within its top management. A significant personnel shift includes the departure of Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) and Deputy CEO Björn Annwall.
The newly streamlined structure is intended to foster simplicity, speed, and collaboration, while empowering regional teams to make key decisions that align closely with customer needs. “In a rapidly changing world, we need to ensure our organization is equipped to navigate a more challenging market. We are now regrouping our commercial leadership team with a focus on making Volvo Cars even stronger with increased speed and efficiency,” stated Jim Rowan, CEO of Volvo Cars.
Annwall, who has had a long tenure in various top management roles at Volvo, will assist in transitioning to the new organizational framework before stepping away from the company. His specific timeline for departure has not been disclosed. Annwall has held multiple positions throughout his career at Volvo, including Senior Vice President of Marketing, Sales, and Service, and Chief Financial Officer. He was instrumental in the company’s IPO and has played a key role in advancing Volvo’s shift toward electrification and market expansion.
“Over the past nine years, Björn has established a strong team around him that will continue the important work ahead. I look forward to working closely together with him to enable this transition,” Rowan added. Annwall expressed gratitude for his time at Volvo, noting the company’s growth in sales and market position during his tenure.
In addition to Annwall’s departure, Erik Severinson has been appointed as Chief Product & Strategy Officer, responsible for leading commercial strategy, corporate and product strategy, sustainability, and digital initiatives.
The Executive Management Team (EMT) will consist of Rowan, Johan Ekdahl (CFO), Chief Legal Officer Helen Hu, Francesca Gamboni (Chief Supply Chain & Manufacturing Officer), Hanna Fager (Chief People Officer), Anders Bell (Chief Engineering & Technology Officer), Head of Communications and External Relations Olivia Ross-Wilson, and Severinson.
The extended Group Management Team will also undergo changes, with Arek Nowinski taking on the role of President of International Markets, overseeing business operations in Europe, the US, Canada, APEC, and Latin America. Gretchen Saegh-Fleming will lead Customer Experience & Marketing, and Oscar Bertilsson Olsborg will head the global retail business, including dealer and service development. Additional managers will remain unchanged in their roles.
