Just over a year ago, Elon Musk stood alongside 16 executives at Tesla’s investor day in Texas, where they delivered detailed presentations on the company’s technology and growth strategies. Musk emphasized the significant bench strength within the team, addressing concerns about Tesla being too reliant on him as a leader. However, a recent analysis by Reuters reveals that at least five members of that executive team have since departed. Despite attempts to reach Tesla, Musk, and the executives for comment, they could not be reached.
According to reports, Musk recently outlined plans to lay off hundreds more employees, including two top executives, in an email to senior managers. Among those who have left are Zach Kirkhorn, former CFO, who resigned with a nondisclosure agreement, and Drew Baglino, Tesla’s former chief battery engineer, who departed in a wave of layoffs initiated by Musk. Baglino sold $181 million in Tesla stock upon his departure.
Rebecca Tinucci, who led Tesla’s charging team and was one of the two women on stage during last year’s investor day, was also among those let go this week. Tinucci emphasized the importance of a seamless charging experience for electric vehicle adoption during her presentation. However, despite Tesla’s efforts in expanding its Supercharger network, including plans for slower growth in new locations and a focus on enhancing existing sites, Tinucci and much of her team were dismissed.
