Rivian has made a surprising addition to its team by hiring DJ Novotney, a seasoned executive with an illustrious career at Apple. Novotney, who spent close to 25 years as a vice president of hardware engineering at Apple, played a pivotal role in shaping some of the tech giant’s most iconic products, including the iPod, iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch.

Novotney’s departure from Apple marks a notable shift as he takes on the role of senior vice president of vehicle programs at Rivian. In his new position, he will lead product management for the company’s electric pickup trucks and SUVs, underscoring Rivian’s ambition to innovate in the automotive industry.

In a message to his former colleagues, Novotney expressed gratitude for his time at Apple and highlighted his excitement about leveraging his experience to contribute to Rivian’s endeavors. He emphasized his passion for developing great products and his eagerness to embark on a new chapter in his career.

Novotney’s appointment underscores Rivian’s commitment to assembling a talented team capable of driving innovation in the electric vehicle market. With his wealth of experience in product development and engineering, he is poised to play a crucial role in shaping Rivian’s future offerings and advancing its position in the automotive landscape.