BYD appoints Stellantis veteran Davino as Regional Director
BYD
BYD, the second-largest producer of battery-electric cars globally, has appointed former Stellantis UK chief Maria Grazia Davino to spearhead its operations in a group of European countries, including Germany, Switzerland, Poland, Austria, and the Czech Republic. Davino's appointment, effective December 1st, underscores BYD's strategic push to consolidate and expand its foothold in the European automotive market.
BYD, which has been at the forefront of Chinese carmakers' expansion into Europe, is also building manufacturing facilities in Hungary and Turkey to establish local production capabilities. The company aims to leverage Davino's extensive industry experience and network to further strengthen its distribution network and management structure in the region.
Davino, who previously held several positions within the Fiat Chrysler and Stellantis groups since 2013, became the Stellantis UK chief in September 2021. Her appointment to lead BYD's operations in the selected European markets comes on the heels of the Chinese automaker's recent hiring of former senior Fiat Chrysler executive Alfredo Altavilla as a special advisor for Europe.
Altavilla, who has been recruiting former colleagues from Stellantis, is tasked with overseeing the construction of BYD's new management framework in Europe as the company continues to bolster its presence in the region.
BYD's strategic hiring decisions underscore the company's commitment to accelerating its European expansion. The appointments of seasoned industry veterans like Davino and Altavilla are expected to provide valuable insights and expertise to help BYD navigate the complexities of the European automotive landscape and cement its position as a formidable player in the growing electric vehicle market.