Volvo Cars has announced the reappointment of Hakan Samuelsson as CEO, effective April 1, 2025. Samuelsson, who previously led the company from 2012 to 2022, will succeed Jim Rowan, who is stepping down after a three year tenure. Samuelsson is set to serve a two-year term while the company searches for a long-term successor.
Eric Li, Chairman of Volvo Cars, expressed confidence in Samuelsson’s leadership, citing his extensive industry experience and strategic vision. “Hakan brings a unique blend of industrial expertise, strategic clarity, and proven leadership. His deep understanding of our group will be invaluable as we navigate the fast-evolving technological landscape and intensifying competition,” Li stated.
This leadership change comes as Volvo Cars, majority owned by China’s Geely, braces for a challenging 2025. The company recently warned that it might face difficulties in matching its 2024 sales and profitability due to geopolitical uncertainties and competitive pressures. Geely Sweden, responsible for managing the group’s investments in European brands like Polestar and Volvo Cars, has not provided additional comments on the matter. Samuelsson’s return is seen as a strategic move to stabilize the company during a period of significant transformation and uncertainty in the automotive industry.