Javier Varela will join Rivian Automotive as its chief operations officer as the company focuses on optimizing operational efficiencies, including the production of R2, its midsized SUV. Varela joins Rivian from Volvo Cars, where he served as chief operating officer and deputy chief executive officer. Varela will start at Rivian in August and will report directly to Rivian Founder and Chief Executive Officer RJ Scaringe.

“Rivian’s commitment to pushing the industry forward with technologically advanced, highly innovative vehicles is something I’ve admired for a long time,” said Varela. “I’m looking forward to helping the company scale and continue to innovate as it rolls out R2 and its next generation of vehicles.”

Varela succeeds Frank Klein, who has served as Rivian’s COO since June 2022. Klein is stepping down after leading the buildout of Rivian’s operations, as well as scaling vehicle production of the EDV and R1 programs.

At Rivian, Varela will oversee operations including procurement, manufacturing, logistics and quality.

“We are thrilled that Javier is bringing his deep experience in the automotive industry to Rivian as we are focused on profitability, operational excellence and delivering R2 to customers as soon as possible,” said RJ Scaringe. “We look forward to welcoming Javier to Rivian. We also thank Frank for his many contributions to Rivian and wish him the best in his next chapter.”