Stellantis has appointed Scott Krugger to the newly created role of Head of North America Design. This significant leadership change, effective July 2025, marks a pivotal moment for the global automaker, signaling a fresh strategic direction for its prominent North American brands. The move underscores Stellantis’ commitment to design innovation and regional autonomy in its expansive portfolio.
In his new capacity, Krugger will be instrumental in shaping the creative direction and overall design strategy for Stellantis’ iconic North American brands, which include Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, and Ram. His leadership is expected to drive distinct and compelling design languages that resonate deeply with the diverse needs and preferences of customers across the region.
Krugger’s appointment is backed by a robust career within the company, spanning back to 2001. Over more than two decades, he has advanced through various positions of increasing responsibility within the design office, accumulating a wealth of experience across diverse vehicle segments and global markets. His extensive background positions him uniquely to lead this critical regional design function.
Most recently, Krugger expertly managed all aspects of exterior design for Dodge and Dodge//SRT passenger car and utility vehicles, demonstrating a keen eye for brand identity and market appeal. Prior to this, he spent five years as the head of Alfa Romeo, Jeep, and user experience design at Stellantis’ EMEA design studio, showcasing his versatility and global perspective in automotive design leadership.
This leadership announcement follows closely on the heels of another key appointment last week, which saw a new head named for all Stellantis’ European brands. Both appointments are integral steps in the broader rollout of Chief Design Officer Ralph Gilles’ revitalized global design organization, designed to enhance creative excellence and strategic alignment across all Stellantis operations.
The new organizational structure is meticulously calibrated to efficiently combine global expertise from Stellantis’ impressive portfolio of 14 iconic vehicle brands with strong regional autonomy. This ensures continued alignment with local customer needs and market dynamics. Ralph Gilles, reporting directly to the Stellantis CEO, will now focus more intently on global design strategy and overarching projects, fostering collaboration and unified direction.
Company executives have expressed high expectations for Krugger’s and Gilles’ combined impact, particularly on bringing inspiring and exciting new products to both the North American and European markets. This strategic shift aims to offer customers even greater freedom of choice, driven by innovative design and strong leadership. The integration of automotive design talent like Krugger’s is crucial for the future of vehicle design within the auto industry leadership.
Stellantis (NYSE: STLA) stands as a leading global automaker, fundamentally dedicated to empowering its customers with the freedom to choose how they move. The company continues to embrace the latest technologies, striving to create sustained value for all its stakeholders. Its unique portfolio includes highly recognized and innovative brands such as Chrysler, Dodge//SRT, Jeep®, Ram, Alfa Romeo, FIAT, and Maserati. This focus on global and North America auto markets highlights the company’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge mobility solutions.
