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Rivian Hires Javier Varela as Chief Operations Officer
IRVINE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Rivian Automotive, Inc. (NASDAQ: RIVN) announced today Javier Varela will join as its Chief Operations Officer as the
About this update from Rivian Automotive, Inc.
[{"type":"text","content":" IRVINE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--\nRivian Automotive, Inc. (NASDAQ: RIVN) announced today Javier Varela will join as its Chief Operations Officer as the company focuses on optimizing operational efficiencies, including the production of R2, its midsized SUV. Varela joins Rivian from Volvo Cars, where he served as Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Chief Executive Officer. Varela will start at Rivian in August and will report directly to Rivian Founder and Chief Executive Officer RJ Scaringe.\n\n\nVarela succeeds Frank Klein, who has served as Rivian’s COO since June 2022. Klein is stepping down after leading the buildout of Rivian’s operations, as well as scaling vehicle production of the EDV and R1 programs.\n\n\nVarela has spent the last eight years at Volvo Cars, where he led the engineering, program management, manufacturing, supply chain and procurement organizations. He oversaw the company’s three main regions, including 14 industrial sites, engineering sites and tech hubs worldwide. He began his career at PSA Group (now Stellantis) in 1990.\n\n\nAt Rivian, Varela will be central to the company’s growth and profitability. He will oversee operations including procurement, manufacturing, logistics and quality.\n\n\n“We are thrilled that Javier is bringing his deep experience in the automotive industry to Rivian as we are focused on profitability, operational excellence and delivering R2 to customers as soon as possible,” said RJ Scaringe. “Javier has a strong background in engineering, program management and innovation and a proven track record of success across a range of operating environments. We look forward to welcoming Javier to Rivian. We also thank Frank for his many contributions to Rivian and wish him the best in his next chapter.”\n\n\nVarela joins Rivian as the company prepares the Normal factory for start of production of R2, its midsize platform unveiled in March. This new midsize SUV will deliver a combination of performance, capability and utility in a five-seat package optimized for big adventures and everyday use. The platform will underpin R2 and R3 product lines.\n\n\n“Rivian’s commitment to pushing the industry forward with technologically advanced, highly innovative vehicles is something I’ve admired for a long time,” said Varela. “I’m looking forward to helping the company scale and continue to innova...