Automobile and energy company Tesla is bringing its first CFO back. Deepak Ahuja, who left the company after over 7 years in 2015, will join in early March.
Ahuja will replace current CFO Jason Wheeler, who joined Tesla in 2015. Wheeler is leaving the company to pursue opportunities in public policy. He will stay on until early April to ensure a smooth transition.
Ahuja worked with Ford before he joined Tesla in 2008. Tesla pointed out that Ahuja will help Tesla continue to scale as it prepares to launch Model 3. "It is a very important time in the history of Tesla, and I'm excited to be back," Ahuja said. "This is a unique opportunity to rejoin the talented and driven team at Tesla. Every day they are working passionately to significantly improve the long-term future of humanity."
Significant achievements during Wheeler's tenure include the acquisition of SolarCity, helping improve the company's cash position, and a profitable third quarter in 2016. He also helped Tesla to scale for the launch for Model 3.
"Jason has been a key member of Tesla's leadership team, and he has played an important role in further improving the company's financial position," said Tesla Co-Founder and CEO Elon Musk. "I want to thank Jason and wish him success as he moves into public policy. Looking ahead, we're pleased to have Deepak join us again to ensure a seamless transition for Tesla."
The news of Wheeler's departure comes on the same day as Tesla announced its Q4/2016 financial results, the first quarter results from Tesla post its acquisition of SolarCity.