In a major shuffle-up at FCA, Davide Grasso, former CEO of Nike’s Converse has joined the Group and has been appointed as the chief operating officer of Maserati. Grasso has also been made a member of the company’s group executive council. Also, Harald Wester has now been assigned the new role of executive chairman at Maserati in addition to his responsibilities as chief technical officer, global powertrain and global vehicle engineering for the FCA Group.
Grasso had joined Nike in 2001 and has over 18 years of corporate experience. He has held a series of top-level management positions including chief marketing officer at Nike.
Harald Wester will oversee product development and engineering based on new product strategy, including the expansion of internal combustion and hybrid/electric powertrain offerings. As Executive Chairman of Maserati, Wester maintains strategic involvement in that historic brand and will oversee all technical and industrial areas.
About the development, Mike Manley, CEO, FCA said, “With Davide’s arrival, we continue to round out FCA’s senior leadership team with world-class talent. He brings a wealth of brand expertise to one of the most historic marks in the automotive world. Davide and Harald will build on the work that’s already underway to rejuvenate Maserati worldwide; and Davide will be a valuable advisor to the GEC on brand matters across the FCA portfolio.”
Grasso too had a few words to say as follows – “Joining Maserati at such a transformational time is an extraordinary opportunity that speaks to my passion for cars, great brands and my personal Italian heritage. Working with Mike Manley, Harald Wester and the rest of the FCA team will be a privilege. I’m honoured to be joining FCA at such a defining and transformative moment for the company and the industry.”