Indian-born Vaibhav Taneja joined Tesla in 2017 and succeeded Zachary Kirkhorn, who left, as CFO. His selection as CFO is being considered as a stunning move given Elon Musk’s replacement has long been rumored, according to a Reuters article.
At the most valuable automaker in the world, which is led by Musk, who also holds executive posts at SpaceX and X (previously known as Twitter), his departure has raised questions about a succession plan.
Being a member of this organization is a rare experience, and I’m incredibly proud of the work we’ve accomplished together since I joined more than 13 years ago, Kirkhorn wrote on LinkedIn.
The largest overhaul at the company since the time of Kirkhorn’s resignation. Until his departure in 2021, longstanding CEO Jerome Guillen oversaw semi-electric vehicles.
“Zach Kirkhorn has made numerous contributions to Tesla over the course of 13 arduous years, for which I am grateful. Best wishes for the next phase of his career and much appreciation,” Elon Musk stated in a post on X.
Vaibhav Taneja, Who is he?
Vaibhav Taneja, 45, was appointed CFO of the US-based electric vehicle firm in addition to his current post as chief accounting officer (CAO) following the retirement of Kirhorn, Tesla’s Master of Coin and finance head for the last four years.
Since May 2018 and March 2019, Taneja has served as both Tesla’s corporate controller and chief operating officer (CAO).
He held a series of financial and accounting positions with SolarCity Corporation, a US-based producer of solar panels that Tesla acquired in 2016, from March 2016 to May 2018, when he took on the role of Assistant Corporate Controller.
According to a corporate filing, Taneja previously worked for PricewaterhouseCoopers between July 1999 and March 2016 in both India and the US. Vaibhav Taneja
