Well we finally get some good news at the end of brutal week.
Jerome Guillen has been promoted to President of Automotive for Tesla. I’m assuming this means he’s in charge of production, suppliers, engineers, sales, service, etc.
https://www.tesla.com/blog/company-update
I think this is a great move for Tesla. Jerome is a proven veteran of Tesla. He was the Model S program manager when it launched and ramped. And he also was the previous head of Sales and Service. And also, after a leave of absence, he came back to head the Tesla Semi program.
I’ve met and observed Jerome at a Tesla event a while back, and he striked me as highly motivated, well-organized, and very competent. Obviously every person has their strengths and weaknesses, but I think his strengths will suit him well in his new role.
Jerome has his work cut out for him. He’ll need to oversee the Model 3 ramp, ongoing and worldwide. And then oversee the development and launch of the Model Y, pickup truck, Semi truck and the Roadster. Not only that, he’ll need to be expanding delivery logistics, service centers, and also improving internal communications and other issues.
Most crucially, Jerome will need to navigate his relationship with Elon as they partner for a better Tesla. I’m optimistic that Jerome will be able to do so, especially considering he’s worked with Elon for many years and knows the challenges.