DETROIT, Dec 9 (Reuters) - Stellantis' ( STLA ) former head of

Ram is returning to the company just months after announcing his

retirement, as the automaker seeks to strengthen its leadership

team following the unexpected resignation of CEO Carlos Tavares.

Stellantis ( STLA ) confirmed on Monday that Timothy Kuniskis would

resume his position as CEO of Ram, one of the company's most

important brands, which has seen U.S. sales slump 24% through

the third quarter of 2024.

"Today's changes will enable us to operate in a structure

that will drive the best outcomes for the region, unlock

significant potential and win in the market. A main lever is for

the Ram brand to have its CEO singularly focused on that brand,"

a company spokeswoman said.

Stellantis ( STLA ) is trying to turn around falling sales and

profits, especially in its traditionally lucrative North

American operations. The carmaker's shares are down about 37% in

2024, an up year for the broader market.

Chairman John Elkann is leading an interim executive

committee while Stellantis ( STLA ) is without a CEO. Tavares'

replacement will be selected in the first half of 2025, the

company said.

Christine Feuell, who took over leading the Ram brand when

Kuniskis retired, will continue to lead Stellantis' ( STLA ) Chrysler

brand as well as Alfa Romeo North America, a company spokeswoman

said.

CNBC earlier reported that Kuniskis would return to the

automaker.