Rose Marcario, the former CEO of Patagonia, will leave Rivian’s board of directors at the start of 2024. The move comes as the electric vehicle (EV) company gears up for a critical period, including the launch of its more affordable R2 SUV in 2026. Rivian disclosed the change in a regulatory filing Friday, stating Marcario is departing to “focus on other commitments.”
Key Departure Amid Expansion Plans
The board will shrink from eight to seven members following Marcario’s exit. This occurs at a pivotal time for Rivian, which aims to significantly expand production beyond its current high-end R1 models. The R2 is designed to appeal to a broader consumer base, with plans for hundreds of thousands of units annually. The company is also investing heavily in advanced automated driving features and establishing a new manufacturing facility in Georgia.
From Patagonia of EVs to Scaling Production
Marcario joined Rivian’s board in 2021 after leading Patagonia for over a decade. Prior to her appointment, Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe frequently positioned his company as the “Patagonia of EVs,” emphasizing a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The connection highlights Rivian’s original ambition to align its brand with ethical and eco-conscious values.
The Role of the Rivian Foundation
Marcario will remain chair of the Rivian Foundation, a separate entity that holds 1% of the company’s equity. The foundation was created before Rivian’s IPO to ensure environmental interests are represented in the company’s success. After a quiet start, the foundation began awarding grants in 2024, distributing $12.6 million to date.
Rivian has emphasized Marcario’s continued role with the foundation, framing her departure from the board as a natural transition. The company spokesperson thanked her for her “stewardship” and “leadership,” signaling a continuation of her influence in the sustainability space.
Marcario’s move reflects the challenges of balancing corporate governance with broader environmental commitments, particularly as Rivian shifts from a niche luxury brand to a mainstream EV manufacturer. The departure underscores the growing pains of scaling a company that once prioritized conservation above all else.
