"Rivian Board Shrinks as Patagonia Alum Exits"

Former Patagonia CEO Rose Marcario Steps Down from Rivian's Board Amid Company's Expansion Plans In a significant move, former Patagonia CEO Rose Marcario announced her resignation from Rivian's board of directors, effective January 1, according to a Friday afternoon stock exchange filing. The departure reduces Rivian's board from eight to seven members, coming at a pivotal time for the company as it prepares to launch its more affordable R2 SUV in 2026 and expand its automated driving features. Rivian wrote in the filing that Marcario's last day on the board will be on January 1, citing her decision to focus on other commitments. Despite leaving the board, Marcario will continue to chair the Rivian Foundation's board of trustees, overseeing the company's philanthropic efforts. The move comes as Rivian plans to start selling its more affordable R2 SUV in the first half of 2026, a model that is expected to reach a much wider market than the company's current R1 SUV and pickup truck. The upcoming R2 SUV is a crucial part of Rivian's expansion plans, with the company aiming to produce hundreds of thousands of units per year, including at a new factory in Georgia. As the company prepares to launch this new model, Marcario's departure marks a significant change for Rivian. According to TechCrunch, Marcario's departure and the downsizing of Rivian's board comes on the eve of an important year for the company. Rivian's expansion plans are a significant development in the electric vehicle market, and the company's ability to execute on these plans will be closely watched by industry observers. While Marcario's departure may raise questions about the company's leadership, Rivian's CEO, R.J. Scaringe, has expressed confidence in the company's ability to drive growth and innovation. "We are grateful for Rose's contributions to Rivian's board and wish her all the best in her future endeavors," Scaringe said in a statement. As Rivian continues to navigate its expansion plans, the company will be closely watched by investors and industry observers. The company's ability to execute on its plans and deliver on its promises will be crucial to its success. With Marcario's departure, Rivian's board will shrink from eight to seven members, but the company's leadership remains committed to driving growth and innovation in the electric vehicle market. In a statement, Rivian said that Marcario's departure will not impact the company's operations or its plans for expansion. "We are confident in our ability to execute on our plans and deliver on our promises to our customers and stakeholders," the company said. As Rivian continues to navigate its expansion plans, the company will be closely watched by industry observers and investors.