MILAN, Feb 3 (Reuters) - Stellantis ( STLA ) announced

changes on Monday aimed at simplifying its structure and

speeding up processes, as the automaker presses ahead with a

reorganisation it started after former CEO Carlos Tavares left

in December.

As part of the plan, Stellantis ( STLA ) has integrated its software

and engineering activities under Chief Engineering and

Technology Officer Ned Curic, the company said in a statement.

It has also given greater powers in product planning and

development and in industrial and commercial activities to its

regional heads.

"Today's announcements will further simplify our

organisation and increase our local agility and rigour of

execution," said Chairman John Elkann, who is steering the

company while it seeks a new permanent CEO.

Stellantis ( STLA ) also announced changes to its top management

structure.

The head of North American operations Antonio Filosa, who is

seen as a candidate to become the group's new CEO, has taken on

the additional role of global chief for quality while leaving

his job of head of the Jeep brand to Bob Broderdorf.

Alain Favey was appointed as head of the group's Peugeot

brand.