As is the case in many industries, the automotive sector sees its fair share of defectors, with executives oftentimes leaving one company for one of its rivals – or at least, another automotive company. Recently, we saw that happen when Raj Nair, former president of Ford’s North American operations, wound up taking over as CEO of Singer, which creates high-dollar restomod versions of vintage Porsche 911 models. Now, another former Ford executive – Nick Collins – has been named CEO of McLaren Group, too.
Collins spent nearly seven years at The Blue Oval in a few different roles, which include Director of Business Associations for Ford Europe, Assistant Vehicle Line Director, and Global Vehicle Line Director – B-segment. He then departed Ford back in 2014 for Jaguar Land Rover, where Collins spent the next nine years as Vehicle Line Director and as the Executive Director of Vehicle Programs. After one year at the helm of EV skunkworks upstart Forseven, Collins is now moving on to become the CEO of McLaren, the British manufacturer of various supercars.
Coincidentally, McLaren recently opted to merge with Forseven, which has been working on developing a luxurious all-electric SUV for some time, but has yet to produce or sell one. It’s unclear how that collaboration will play out, but in the meantime, Collins will be tasked with helping to turn things around at the niche auto manufacturer, and helping it thrive in the coming years after taking over for Michael Leiters, former CEO of McLaren Automotive, who recently stepped down from the position.
“Michael has played a crucial role during his time at McLaren Automotive and we thank him for all he’s achieved during his tenure,” said CYVN and McLaren Group Holdings Chairman, Jassem Mohamed Bu Ataba Al Zaabi. “We wish him every success in his future endeavors.” “We thank Michael for his leadership and tremendous contributions made during a pivotal time for McLaren Automotive. I wish him well in his personal and professional future,” Collins added.
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