Stellantis Names New CEOs for Ram and Jeep Brands

July 20, 2026
By Mintesinot Nigussie

Stellantis has appointed new chief executives for its Jeep and Ram brands, naming Matt VanDyke to lead Ram and Branden Coté to oversee Jeep as the automaker moves to strengthen leadership across its North American operations. VanDyke will take over as CEO of Ram effective July 20, while Coté will assume leadership of Jeep on August 3. The appointments are part of Stellantis Chief Executive Officer Antonio Filosa’s efforts to assemble an experienced management team to execute the company’s growth strategy.

Both executives will report to Tim Kuniskis, who currently leads American brands, North America marketing and retail strategy at Stellantis. Kuniskis previously continued to oversee Ram after taking on the broader role in July 2025. VanDyke brings extensive automotive marketing experience to Ram after serving as president of Shift Digital, a company specialising in digital marketing solutions for automotive brands. Before joining Shift Digital, he held senior positions at Ford Motor Company, including head of US marketing, vice-president of marketing at Ford of Europe and head of global marketing, sales and service for Lincoln.

Coté joins Jeep with more than 20 years of experience spanning automotive manufacturers and dealership operations. His most recent role was brand president at AutoNation, where he was responsible for multiple major automotive brands. He has also held leadership positions with Aston Martin Lagonda, Canoo, Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Benz USA. Stellantis said the leadership changes are intended to support the continued growth of two of its most recognised brands.

Kuniskis said the new executives bring experience that aligns with the company’s focus on strengthening customer relationships and delivering products that meet market expectations. “Matt and Branden are proven leaders who will build on our successes and take these iconic American brands to the next level,” Kuniskis said. The company also thanked Bob Broderdorf for his leadership of Jeep since February 2025. Stellantis said Broderdorf is taking medical leave and will assume a new leadership position within the company after returning.

Stellantis operates a global portfolio of automotive brands, including Jeep, Ram, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Peugeot, Citroën, Alfa Romeo, Maserati, Opel, Vauxhall, Abarth, DS Automobiles, Free2move and Leasys. The appointments are expected to strengthen leadership across its North American operations as the company continues to navigate a competitive automotive market.

Source: FSX Business News