Rivian sales chief and former Porsche exec Kjell Gruner resigns after 11 months

Rivian sales chief and former Porsche executive Kjell Gruner is leaving the electric vehicle startup to pursue other opportunities after 11 months on the job, according to a regulatory filing

Rivian hired Gruner after he resigned as CEO of Porsche Cars North America in July 2023 after less than three years.

California's Rivian said in a filing July 26 that Gruner had notified the company July 24 of his decision to resign "to pursue other opportunities." Gruner started at Rivian in September 2023.

"Gruner's resignation is not the result of any disagreement with the Company on any matters related to its business, policies, or practices," Rivian said. His resignation is effective July 26.

Gruner, whose full title was chief commercial officer and president of business growth, will continue as a Rivian employee until Feb. 17, 2025, "to assist with the transition, as needed," Rivian said.

"Dagan Mishoulam, who has played an integral role at the company for the past several years, is assuming the role of senior vice president, commercial, and many of the responsibilities previously held by Dr. Gruner," the automaker said. Gruner has a Ph.D. in marketing.

In a July 26 post on LinkedIn, Gruner listed several accomplishments while leading sales at the startup.

"Together, we have built our direct-to-consumer marketing function, established a dynamic sales team, opened new showrooms, broken sales and delivery records, and, most importantly, enhanced the overall customer experience, including delivery and service," Gruner said in the post.

Gruner also noted the business partnership that Rivian forged with Volkswagen Group, which was announced in June.

"And now, I am ready to climb the next mountain," Gruner said, without providing details about his new opportunities. "Stay tuned."

On July 2, Rivian reported a second-quarter sales increase of 9 percent to 13,790 vehicles compared with the same period last year. The positive delivery number came despite a factory shutdown in April for retooling.