Tesla Appoints New Head of North American Sales
Tesla has announced a significant leadership change in its North American sales division. Raj Jegannathan, who served as vice president of Information Technology and AI Infrastructure, has departed after stepping into the sales leadership role just last year.
Tesla’s North American Sales Leadership Transition
Jegannathan’s resignation follows the dismissal of former sales head Troy Jones in July 2025. This reshuffle marks another high-profile exit in a turbulent period for Tesla’s sales strategy.
Context of Departure
Jegannathan shared his decision to leave the company via a LinkedIn post. He reflected on his 13-year tenure at Tesla, which encompassed various roles in IT, Security, and Sales. His recent appointment aimed to address ongoing sales challenges amid declining demand.
- Previous Role: VP of Information Technology, AI Infrastructure, Business Apps, and Information Security.
- New Role: Led North American sales after the departure of Troy Jones.
- Duration: Less than a year in the North American sales leadership position.
Talent Exodus at Tesla
The departure of Jegannathan adds to a worrying trend of senior leadership exits at Tesla. This follows significant layoffs in April 2024, during which over 10% of the workforce was reduced. Notable figures in sales and service have also left the company in recent weeks.
Financial and Operational Challenges
Tesla’s sales issues coincide with a 3% drop in annual revenue in 2025, marking the first decline in the company’s history. This decline has raised concerns regarding its aging vehicle lineup and potential backlash against CEO Elon Musk’s political stance.
Implications for Future Leadership
The frequent turnover of North American sales leadership poses potential risks for the company. The sales role appears challenging, especially given the complexities surrounding current demand issues.
Ultimately, Tesla needs a strong leader who can navigate these turbulent waters. The company must find a candidate capable of addressing both operational and strategic challenges in sales.
