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Stellantis brings back sales leader Stoicevich to work with dealers

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  Jason Stoicevich to work with regional Stellantis dealers.

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Stellantis, the global automaker formed by the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group, has recently made a significant move to strengthen its relationship with dealers in the United States by bringing back a well-known sales leader, Richard "Rich" Stoicevich. This decision comes at a critical time for the company as it navigates a challenging market environment, declining sales figures, and growing tensions with its dealer network. Stoicevich, who previously held a prominent role within the company, is returning to work directly with dealers to address their concerns, improve communication, and help steer Stellantis toward a more collaborative and successful future in the U.S. market.

Stoicevich’s return to Stellantis is seen as a strategic effort to mend and fortify the relationship between the automaker and its dealers, who play a crucial role in the company’s sales and distribution network. Dealers have expressed frustration in recent years over various issues, including inventory management, pricing strategies, and the pace of Stellantis’ transition to electric vehicles (EVs). These concerns have been compounded by broader industry challenges, such as supply chain disruptions and shifting consumer preferences. By reappointing Stoicevich, a seasoned executive with a track record of working closely with dealers, Stellantis aims to rebuild trust and create a more cohesive partnership with its retail network.

Rich Stoicevich is no stranger to the automotive industry or to Stellantis’ operations in the United States. He previously served as the head of U.S. sales for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), one of the predecessor companies to Stellantis, where he was instrumental in driving sales growth and fostering strong dealer relationships. During his tenure, Stoicevich was known for his hands-on approach, often engaging directly with dealers to understand their challenges and advocate for their needs within the corporate structure. His ability to bridge the gap between corporate goals and dealer realities made him a respected figure in the industry, and his departure from the company a few years ago was felt by many in the dealer community.

The decision to bring Stoicevich back into the fold reflects Stellantis’ recognition of the importance of dealer satisfaction in achieving long-term success. Dealers are the face of the brand to consumers, and their ability to effectively sell vehicles and provide after-sales service directly impacts the company’s reputation and bottom line. In recent years, however, the relationship between Stellantis and its dealers has been strained. Some dealers have voiced concerns over what they perceive as a lack of transparency in decision-making processes, particularly regarding vehicle allocations and pricing policies. Others have expressed unease about the company’s aggressive push toward electrification, worrying that the infrastructure and consumer demand for EVs may not yet be sufficient to support such a rapid transition.

Stoicevich’s role will likely focus on addressing these pain points by serving as a liaison between Stellantis’ corporate leadership and its dealer network. His deep understanding of the U.S. market, combined with his prior experience at FCA, positions him well to tackle these challenges. One of his primary tasks will be to ensure that dealers feel heard and supported, whether through improved communication channels, more equitable inventory distribution, or tailored training programs to help them adapt to selling electric and hybrid vehicles. By fostering a more collaborative environment, Stoicevich can help align the goals of Stellantis with the practical realities faced by dealers on the ground.

The timing of Stoicevich’s return is particularly noteworthy given the current state of the U.S. automotive market. The industry is undergoing a period of significant transformation, driven by technological advancements, changing consumer behaviors, and increasing regulatory pressures to reduce emissions. For Stellantis, which owns popular brands like Jeep, Ram, Dodge, and Chrysler, maintaining a strong foothold in the U.S. is essential to its global strategy. However, the company has faced headwinds in recent months, including declining market share and criticism over its handling of certain product launches. Rebuilding trust with dealers could be a key step in reversing these trends and positioning Stellantis for future growth.

Moreover, Stoicevich’s reappointment signals a broader shift in Stellantis’ approach to its U.S. operations. Under the leadership of CEO Carlos Tavares, the company has been focused on streamlining costs and improving efficiency since its formation in 2021. While these efforts have yielded financial benefits, they have sometimes come at the expense of dealer relations. By bringing back a figure like Stoicevich, who is known for prioritizing partnerships over purely profit-driven metrics, Stellantis may be indicating a willingness to balance its corporate objectives with the needs of its retail partners. This could prove to be a pivotal move as the company seeks to navigate an increasingly competitive landscape, where customer loyalty and brand perception are more important than ever.

In addition to addressing dealer concerns, Stoicevich is expected to play a role in helping Stellantis adapt to the evolving demands of the U.S. consumer base. American car buyers have shown a growing interest in SUVs, trucks, and crossovers, a trend that aligns well with Stellantis’ portfolio of brands like Jeep and Ram. However, the company must also contend with rising demand for electric and hybrid vehicles, an area where it has lagged behind some competitors. Stoicevich’s experience in sales strategy could help guide dealers in marketing these new technologies to skeptical or unfamiliar customers, ensuring that Stellantis remains relevant in a rapidly changing market.

Another area where Stoicevich’s expertise will likely be invaluable is in navigating the complexities of inventory management. The automotive industry has been plagued by supply chain issues in recent years, leading to shortages of critical components like semiconductors. These disruptions have made it difficult for automakers to maintain consistent vehicle production, often leaving dealers with limited stock to sell. Stoicevich’s prior experience in sales leadership means he is well-versed in working through such challenges, and he may be able to advocate for policies that ensure dealers receive fair allocations of available inventory. This, in turn, could help reduce friction between Stellantis and its retail partners, creating a more stable and predictable sales environment.

Beyond these immediate priorities, Stoicevich’s return also carries symbolic weight. His reappointment sends a message to dealers that Stellantis is committed to listening and adapting based on their feedback. This gesture of goodwill could go a long way in repairing relationships that have been tested by past disagreements. For dealers who have felt sidelined or undervalued, having a familiar and trusted figure like Stoicevich back in a leadership role may provide reassurance that their concerns will be taken seriously. This renewed sense of partnership could ultimately translate into better sales performance, as motivated and supported dealers are more likely to go the extra mile for the brand.

Looking ahead, the success of Stoicevich’s tenure will depend on his ability to balance the competing interests of Stellantis’ corporate leadership and its dealer network. While his past experience suggests he is up to the task, the challenges facing the automotive industry today are more complex than ever before. From the transition to electric vehicles to the rise of direct-to-consumer sales models, Stellantis and its dealers must navigate uncharted territory together. Stoicevich’s role as a mediator and strategist will be critical in ensuring that both sides remain aligned on a shared vision for the future.

In conclusion, Stellantis’ decision to bring back Richard Stoicevich to work with dealers represents a calculated and potentially transformative step for the company’s U.S. operations. With his extensive experience, deep industry knowledge, and proven ability to build strong relationships, Stoicevich is well-positioned to address the concerns of dealers and help Stellantis regain its footing in a competitive market. By prioritizing collaboration and communication, he has the opportunity to strengthen the bond between the automaker and its retail network, paving the way for improved sales, enhanced brand loyalty, and long-term success. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Stoicevich’s leadership will be a key factor in determining whether Stellantis can adapt and thrive in the years to come. His return is not just a personnel change but a signal of Stellantis’ commitment to partnership and progress in one of its most important markets.

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[ https://www.theoaklandpress.com/2025/07/17/stellantis-brings-back-sales-leader-stoicevich-to-work-with-dealers-2/ ]