STELLANTIS has appointed Mike Tsesmelis as managing director, Australia and New Zealand, responsible for overseeing operations of Jeep, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Fiat Professional, Abarth, and Leapmotor brands.

He succeeds Michael Filazzola, who, with over 30 years in the automotive industry, joined Stellantis in 2023 to lead local growth initiatives and the launch of Leapmotor.

Mike Tsesmelis

Mr Filazzola’s career has spanned executive roles in sales, aftersales, customer experience, supply chain, and product development across General Motors, Holden Australia, and Bapcor.

Stellantis senior vice president of sales and marketing, India and Asia Pacific Region, Nirmal Nair, welcomed Mr Tsesmelis to the leadership team.

“Australia is a key market for Stellantis, and we are entering a pivotal phase with the launch and expansion of Leapmotor, and ensuring we have the right product portfolio in Australia,” Mr Nair said.

“Mike brings a wealth of experience across Asia Pacific and a deep understanding of our brands. I’m confident his leadership will strengthen our position and drive our future success in this market.

“I’d also like to sincerely thank Michael for his dedication and leadership during an important phase for Stellantis in Australia and New Zealand. We wish him all the best in his next chapter.”

Michael Filazzola

Mr Tsesmelis brings extensive Asia Pacific region experience, including previous leadership roles within Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA, now Stellantis).

He served as managing director, FCA Asia Pacific, and held commercial and supply chain leadership positions across logistics and vehicle operations. Most recently, he was managing director of AEC, a global mobility solutions provider.

Mr Tsesmelis said: “This is an exciting and transformative time to be joining Stellantis in Australia.

“With a bold growth strategy, the introduction of Leapmotor, and continuing to grow Stellantis’ iconic brands, I’m looking forward to leading the teams in Australia and New Zealand, and working in close partnership with our dealers, general distributors, and loyal customer base.”