On Wednesday, August 10, electric carmaker Nikola (NASDAQ: NKLA) announced that its CEO, Mark Russell, will be retiring at the end of this year. Russell will be replaced by the company's current Motor President, Michael Lohscheller on January 1, 2023. Lohscheller will also replace Russell as President, and will take his seat on the company's board of directors, effective immediately.
"With more than 20 years in the automotive industry, Michael has deep experience as a seasoned executive and as a highly knowledgeable business operator," Steve Girsky, Nikola Board Chairman is quoted in the announcement.
Lohscheller joined as president of Nikola Motor in February of this year. Nikola wrote in its announcement that Lohscheller has played a key role in in the development and production of Tre battery-electric vehicles (BEV) and the Tre fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV).
"In his six months since joining our company, Michael has continued to bring an increased sense of urgency, high level of accountability, improved lines of communication and accelerated decision-making to Nikola Motor," said Girsky. "We believe that same standard of excellence and operational and commercial expertise will benefit the company's vehicle and energy infrastructure vision."
Loscheller previously served as CFO for Volkswagen Group (OTC: VWAPY) and Mitsubishi (OTC: MSBHF), and as CEO for German carmaker Opel (NYSE: STLA), "where he led the company to sustainable profitability and oversaw its transformation into a leading electrified car brand," according to Nikola.
"I am honored and excited to succeed Mark as Nikola's next CEO as we advance our journey as a pioneer in zero-emission transportation and infrastructure solutions," said Lohscheller in the company release. "We are well-positioned to capitalize on the growth opportunities ahead of us and accelerate our strategic initiatives."
After his retirement, Russell will have served as Nikola's CEO for just over two years. Amongst other things, Girsky says that Russell's leadership has helped bring about the beginning of production on the company's BEVs, the expansion of Nikola's partner network, and construction of the company's Arizona-based facility.
"Being part of Nikola has been the highlight of my career," Russell said in the release. "I could not be prouder of this team and everything we have accomplished and the milestones we have achieved so far. I am confident that under Michael's leadership we will continue to show how to decarbonize heavy commercial transportation, and help the world create the energy ecosystem of the future."