Arizona-based Nikola Corp. (NKLA) has named Tom Schmitt as its new Chief Commercial Officer (COO). He's tasked with overseeing the electric truck manufacturer's sales, commercial operations, dealerships, service, customer success, and marketing functions.
Nikola, which specializes in hydrogen fuel cell (FCEV) technology and the required fueling equipment, builds the Class 8 TRE semi. It's available as either an FCEV or a pure battery-electric vehicle (BEV). Last May at the ACT Expo, the manufacturer unveiled its updated BEV TRE 2.0.
“Fortifying our commercial team is crucial to our success as we focus on our customers’ experience and expanding the zero-emission Class 8 marketplace,” said President and CEO, Stephen Girsky. “Tom brings a solid track record built over the past 35-plus years that will help drive forward Nikola’s strategic and operational goals, inside and out.”
[Related: Nikola's CEO and software chief provide exclusive walkthrough of improved BEV 2.0]
Schmitt's professional background makes him ideally suited for his new role. Previously, he served as CEO for Forward Air, COO of Schenker, CEO of Purolator and FedEx Supply Chain. He's also a longtime board member for various well-known companies.
Tom Schmitt joins Nikola as its new COO. He's tasked with overseeing a number of essential elements as the OEM continues its market expansion.Nikola
“I’ve been following Nikola for years, and it’s an honor to join this mission-driven organization with the sole goal of decarbonizing the trucking industry,” said Schmitt. “I look forward to working with the passionate Nikola team in bringing that goal to fruition.”
He has an MBA from Harvard Business School and a Bachelor of Arts in European Business Administration from Middlesex University.
For Q2 2024, Nikola reported sales of $31.3 million, up 318% from Q1. Sales of its FCEV semis also exceeded expectations, totaling 72 units, up 80% from Q1.
[Related: Nikola shares climb amid hiring announcement, new customers]
