Rimac Technology has announced a significant leadership change as the business moves into its next phase of development as a global Tier One supplier to the automotive sector. Nurdin Pitarević, formerly COO, has stepped into the role of CEO, while Marko Brkljačić, previously deputy COO, has been appointed COO. Founder Mate Rimac will continue to support the company in his capacity as president of Rimac Group, enabling him to focus more closely on Bugatti Rimac, where he remains CEO.
Reflecting on the changes, Mate Rimac said: “Nurdin has proven himself as an exceptional leader during his time as COO and as my deputy in leading Rimac Technology. He combines deep operational expertise with clear strategic thinking and a strong sense for people and culture. I have full trust in Nurdin to lead Rimac Technology through its next phase of growth and to continue building a world-class Tier One organisation. Nurdin and Marko have been instrumental in Rimac Technology’s evolution from a high-performance niche supplier into a trusted Tier 1 partner. They have shown that advanced technology, industrial discipline, and entrepreneurial speed can coexist at scale.”
The transition comes after a pivotal year for the company, during which Rimac Technology delivered tens of thousands of battery and powertrain systems to OEMs around the world, demonstrating both operational robustness and strong in‑field performance. The business also secured several new programmes with major global automotive manufacturers, marking a notable shift in scale and industrial maturity.
Since joining Rimac Technology from one of Europe’s largest Tier One suppliers, Mr Pitarević has overseen a period of rapid industrialisation and organisational development. Under his leadership, the company has brought multiple programmes into series production, delivering thousands of systems to customers while meeting demanding automotive industry standards.
He said: “Stepping into the CEO role means moving beyond operational delivery to shaping the long-term direction of the company. Our focus is on building a technology leader that scales responsibly – combining innovation, digitalisation, sustainability, strong organisational foundations, and sustainable profitability. With new programs entering series production and a strong pipeline ahead, this is the right moment to accelerate our trajectory.”
Advanced electrification technologiesAs CEO, Mr Pitarević will lead the company’s strategic roadmap through to 2030, with an emphasis on advanced electrification technologies, AI-driven operations, sustainable industrial expansion and solid financial and organisational structures. This includes the development of next‑generation battery technology using solid‑state cells, in partnership with a global technology provider, along with continued expansion of Rimac Technology’s production capabilities.
Incoming COO Mr Brkljačić brings broad experience in operational management, digital transformation and strategic delivery. His career includes senior roles at Tokić Ltd as well as several key positions within Rimac Automobili, including head of strategic projects and chief of staff. He said: “Rimac Technology is at a point where operational excellence must scale seamlessly with ambition. Our focus is on ensuring consistent execution, empowered teams, and systems that support long-term, repeatable success across all programmes.”
Rimac Technology’s Croatian Campus is currently operating at full capacity on multiple shifts, and five new production lines are scheduled to come on-line over the next two years, supporting further local employment growth. The company is also in advanced discussions with several OEMs regarding new electric and hybrid powertrain programmes. Its growing customer base includes BMW Group and Ceer Motors, alongside several confidential mid-to-high‑volume programmes already under contract or in development.
The business continues to distinguish itself through its combination of cutting‑edge electrification expertise, rapid development capability and industrial‑scale manufacturing performance — attributes reinforced by its work on vehicles such as the Nevera and the Bugatti Tourbillon.