A Tesla investor has outlined critical qualities for a potential new CEO amid growing speculation about Elon Musk facing pressure to resign.
With Elon Musk facing increased scrutiny, discussions are growing about who could realistically succeed him as Tesla’s next leader.
Amid concerns over performance, an investor outlined key attributes needed for anyone who might succeed Elon Musk at Tesla.
Pressure mounts over questions about Musk’s role.
Elon Musk, who has led Tesla since 2008, now finds his future with the company increasingly uncertain.
Earlier this year, Musk briefly held a government position as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
He has since stepped away from the role but continues to divide attention between his various ventures.
This has reportedly sparked concern among shareholders about his ability to remain focused on Tesla’s direction.
Unstable stock prices in recent months have only fueled speculation.
Reports from The Wall Street Journal indicate Tesla’s board may have started working with recruitment firms.
This suggests the company is seriously considering a leadership change.
Tesla investor reveals key requirements needed in new CEO amid reports of Elon Musk’s resignation
Gene Munster, managing partner at Deepwater Asset Management and a longtime Tesla investor, believes that finding a suitable replacement will not be easy.
He described Musk as an integral part of Tesla’s identity and success, remarking, “He’s the fabric that holds Tesla together.”
According to Munster, any new leader would struggle to replicate Musk’s ability to drive innovation and disruption.
“He’s a fabric that holds Tesla together and moves it forward. He’s one of those people who can’t be replaced.”
He added: “Culturally, it’s hard for them [Tesla] to bring somebody over. Their whole DNA is about disrupting the standard.”
This makes it difficult for an outsider to seamlessly integrate into the company’s leadership.
Top Tesla CEO candidates are likely to come from within
Investors believe Tesla will promote an internal candidate familiar with its culture and operations instead of hiring externally.
Seth Goldstein, an analyst at Morningstar, identified several potential internal candidates.
Among them is Tom Zhu, Tesla’s Senior Vice President of Automotive, who has played a key role in overseeing production and operations.
Another top contender is Chief Financial Officer Vaibhav Taneja, who has been instrumental in Tesla’s financial strategy.
Omead Afshar, Musk’s former chief of staff, is considered a candidate for his close ties and Tesla knowledge.
Straubel emerges as a strong contender
JB Straubel, a Tesla board member and current CEO of Redwood Materials, could also be a promising candidate.
Having worked closely with Musk during Tesla’s early years, Straubel is respected both within and outside the company.
Gene Munster praised Straubel’s deep understanding of Tesla’s vision and his strong rapport with Musk.
Talking about Straubel, Munster said: “I could see that being a big win on the level that he knows Tesla.
He’s also probably the person who has the best working relationship with Elon.
“Elon and JB have something that’s pretty special. And I think it’s unique in Elon’s orbit, the mutual respect that they have for each other.”