VROOM! Apple Veteran DJ Novotney Joins Rivian as SVP of Vehicle Programs

DJ Novotney, an influential figure at Apple Inc. ($AAPL) for nearly a quarter of a century, is leaving to assume a pivotal role at Rivian Automotive Inc. ($RIVN), marking a significant shift in his career trajectory. Novotney, who has been integral to the development of iconic Apple products like the iPod, iPhone, and iPad, will now serve as Rivian's Senior Vice President of Vehicle Programs. His departure underscores a continuing trend of high-profile exits from Apple.

Novotney's career at Apple, spanning almost 25 years, positioned him as a central figure in hardware engineering, closely working with other top executives. He played a crucial role in launching the Apple Watch and was involved early on in Apple's electric vehicle initiative, codenamed Titan. His expertise extends beyond just hardware; he also contributed to Apple's foray into home devices, including ventures into robotics and AI.

At Rivian, Novotney's role will be multifaceted, overseeing product management for both products and engineering. His experience in bringing groundbreaking products to market is expected to be invaluable for Rivian, which is establishing itself as a formidable player in the electric vehicle industry. The company, known for its electric SUVs, pickup trucks, and a partnership with Amazon for electric delivery vans, views Novotney's hiring as a significant coup.

For Apple, based in Cupertino, California, Novotney's exit adds to a growing list of departures among its senior ranks, indicating a period of transition within the company. Meanwhile, Irvine, California-based Rivian continues to emerge as a serious competitor in the electric vehicle space, challenging market leaders like Tesla Inc. with its innovative product lineup. Novotney's switch to Rivian not only signifies a personal transition from consumer electronics to electric vehicles but also highlights the broader industry trend of technology talents gravitating towards the burgeoning EV sector.