RJ Scaringe, the CEO of electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Rivian, has added another significant responsibility to his portfolio as he takes charge of all product functions within the company. This move, effective immediately, places Scaringe at the helm of critical decision-making processes across various departments. The outgoing head of this role, Nick Kalayjian, will continue to contribute to the company in an advisory capacity until 2024.
According to a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Scaringe’s new position entails overseeing software, autonomy, design, propulsion, vehicle, electrical, and programs departments at Rivian. Simultaneously, Kalayjian transitions into the role of Vice President of Vehicle Engineering & Propulsion, reporting directly to Scaringe.
Scaringe communicated this organizational shift to Rivian employees via email, highlighting Kalayjian’s focus on the next-generation Rivian platform during this transitional period. In his message, Scaringe emphasized the critical role of quality in shaping the brand’s perception and facilitating the ongoing production ramp.
Kalayjian, in a separate email reported by TechCrunch, indicated that the transition was a deliberate decision aligned with Scaringe’s vision. “With this, the time has come for me to make a change. Over the last few months, I’ve taken time to Zoom Out and have been talking with RJ to understand how my involvement could continue to allow me to have an impact while letting me step back from my existing role,” stated Kalayjian. He expressed confidence in Scaringe’s engineering prowess and visionary leadership, anticipating that Scaringe’s increased involvement with the Product teams would create substantial value for Rivian and its shareholders.
