Rivian has lost its chief engineer Charles Sanderson to his old employers. Sanderson returned to McLaren after spending five years at the American startup, as reported by Automotive News.
Sanderson joined Rivian to develop its R1 vehicle platform. He will now resume at supercar maker McLaren as the chief technical officer. He was formerly the head of the software department. He will now spearhead McLaren’s new technology roadmap and product innovation strategy.
Rivian commented that Sanderson chose to return to McLaren. However, the spokesperson stressed that he reported to Nick Kalayjian, the chief product development officer who has a strong leadership team and a deep bench of talent.
Sanderson began his stint at Rivian as VP of vehicle integration before moving to chief engineer in 2019.
Rivian continues to work its way through production issues at its plant in Normal, Illinois. It produced nearly half of its target of 50,000 last year. However, the company is aiming for 50,000 in 2023.
Rivian has seen at least six top executives exit the company in the last seven months. The departed include Randy Frank, VP of body and interior engineering, and Steve Gawronski, VP of parts purchasing. Also out the door were Rivian’s chief lobbyist, general counsel, and a senior strategy director.
