Carmaker appoints new managing director

Stellantis Australia has appointed Michael Filazzola as its new managing director, with his role encompassing the Jeep, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Fiat Professional and Abarth brands. 

Filazzola, pictured, has worked in the automotive and aftermarket industry for more than 28 years across markets in Australia, China and Southeast Asia and will take up the position from March 20.

He replaces Kevin Flynn who, after 47 years in the industry, is retiring to spend more time with his family in South Africa. 

Billy Hayes, Stellantis senior vice-president for the India and Asia Pacific region, says: “With proven leadership capabilities and a diverse skillset, we are confident that Michael will continue to drive the growth and success of the Stellantis business in Australia.”

Filazzola has experience as a senior executive across sales, aftersales, customer experience, purchasing and supply chain, and product development while at General Motors, Holden Australia and Bapcor.

Most recently, he was the general manager for product development at Bapcor, overseeing the growth of private brands within the aftermarket industry across the ditch. 

“I am looking forward to joining Stellantis and working with the team across its robust suite of brands,” he says.

“With the company focus moving towards electrification, and a new generation of vehicles from all brands being launched into the market, I feel like this is a great time to join Stellantis.”

His predecessor Flynn joined Stellantis’ Australian team in 2019 and was responsible for the business operations and performance of all the carmaker’s brands in New Zealand and Australia.

Focusing on improving product quality and customer satisfaction, Stellantis notes he successfully navigated the challenges of a global pandemic while achieving growth for the company.