McLaren Automotive has made public the departure of its Chief Executive Officer, Mike Flewitt, effective immediately. Joining McLaren in 2012 as the Chief Operating Officer, Flewitt assumed the role of CEO in 2013.
Upon Flewitt’s arrival, McLaren’s road car sector was encountering losses of 12 percent, which he managed to transform into a small profit by 2014. Although not without challenges, Flewitt has predominantly brought about positive changes for the brand, such as spearheading a $1.6 billion program to electrify every McLaren car by 2025.
In a brief statement released by McLaren, Flewitt did not disclose the motive behind his departure, leaving speculations to activities like dedicating more time to family or pursuing leisurely activities.
“I am immensely proud to have guided McLaren Automotive through most of its initial, highly triumphant period and am honored to have been a part of the remarkable McLaren journey,” quoted Flewitt. “The accomplishment of this young enterprise is a reflection of the numerous enthusiastic and skilled individuals I have had the privilege of collaborating with and I anticipate witnessing its continued success.”
His departure appears sudden and unexpected, prompting McLaren to embark on the search for a new CEO, preferably one with a heightened interest in the profit potential of SUVs. Meanwhile, other senior staff members will temporarily assume Flewitt’s responsibilities. The press release specified that Non-Executive Director Michael Macht will oversee all technical and operational facets of Flewitt’s duties, while Paul Walsh, the executive chairman, will handle sales and marketing functions.
Established in 2010, McLaren Automotive saw Flewitt at the helm for nearly the entirety of the brand’s existence thus far.
Walsh, in a statement, remarked, “Mike’s key role in solidifying McLaren’s status as a premier luxury sports car brand has propelled the brand to accomplishments that took our competitors many more years to achieve. We express our gratitude to Mike for his remarkable contributions and wish him the best in his future pursuits.”
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