The parent company for Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Fiat Professional, and Abarth in Australia has a new boss.

    Michael Filazzola has been appointed managing director of Stellantis Australia, effective March 20.

    He replaces Kevin Flynn, who is retiring from the industry “to spend more time with his family in South Africa”.

    Mr Flynn took the reins at Stellantis during 2019, and outlined his plans to revive the Jeep brand in particular during 2020.

    Sales for Jeep grew from 5519 in 2019, to 5748 in 2020, to 7762 in 2021. They dropped to 6658 in 2022.

    Alfa Romeo sales dropped from 891 in 2019, to 571 in 2022. Fiat sales have dropped from a peak of 928 in 2019, to 357 in 2022 – although the arrival of a new 500e hatchback may help grow those figures in 2023.

    Mr Filazzola has worked in the automotive industry for close to 30 years across Australia, China, and south-east Asia, with a focus on the aftermarket.

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

    “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.”

    Scott Collie

    Scott Collie is an automotive journalist based in Melbourne, Australia. Scott studied journalism at RMIT University and, after a lifelong obsession with everything automotive, started covering the car industry shortly afterwards. He has a passion for travel, and is an avid Melbourne Demons supporter.

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