Elon Musk has shaken up Tesla. The CEO swiftly fired omead Afshar, the VP of manufacturing and operations, after a downturn in car sales across key markets. this notable shift in Tesla’s leadership, detailed by News Directory 3, comes amid reports of dwindling sales, especially in Europe where cheaper electric vehicles gain ground. Adding to the recent chaos, the leadership change follows the departure of Milan Kovac from the Optimus robotics program. Understand the circumstances, the internal probe, and Musk’s plans. Tesla’s stock performance reflects this reality. Discover what’s next for the company’s future role.
Tesla CEO elon Musk Dismisses Manufacturing VP Omead afshar
Updated June 27, 2025
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has terminated Omead Afshar, the company’s vice president of manufacturing and operations. the move comes after Tesla experienced declines in car sales across key markets. Afshar, who reported directly to Musk, oversaw a team of high-level employees, including Troy Jones, VP of North American sales; Joe Ward, VP for Europe, Middle East, and Africa; and Karen Steakley, now leading business advancement and policy.
Tesla’s car sales in Europe have fallen for five consecutive months, according to data from the European Automobile Manufacturers Association. Customers are increasingly turning to European brands and cheaper Chinese electric vehicles. This Tesla leadership change adds to recent turmoil, following Milan Kovac’s departure from the Optimus robotics program earlier in June.
Afshar was previously under internal examination in 2022 regarding orders for hard-to-get construction materials. Following the probe, he briefly worked for SpaceX before returning to Tesla and being promoted. Despite his recent praise for Musk on X, his profile still listed him as being at Tesla at the time of his dismissal.
Tesla’s stock is down 19% this year, underperforming the Nasdaq and most of its tech peers. the company has also faced reputational challenges, partly attributed to Musk’s political activity, including spending nearly $300 million to support Donald trump and endorsing Germany’s afd party.
What’s next
The future role of Tesla’s manufacturing operations remains uncertain. The company has not yet commented on a replacement for Afshar.