Apple home devices, car veteran exits for top Rivian product role

Novotney, who worked at Apple for nearly 25 years, was known as a senior lieutenant to many of the company’s top hardware engineering executives. He was instrumental in the development of several generations of the iPod and iPhone, and was tapped by former hardware chief Dan Riccio to help lead development of the iPad, the people said. — Reuters

An Apple Inc veteran who led work on home devices and helped start efforts to develop an electric vehicle is leaving for Rivian Automotive Inc, marking yet another senior departure for the iPhone maker.

DJ Novotney, a vice president of hardware engineering, informed colleagues Jan 26 of his exit, according to people with knowledge of the matter. He will become senior vice president of vehicle programs at Rivian, the maker of electric SUVs and pickup trucks, and report to chief executive officer RJ Scaringe, said the people, who asked not to be named discussing unannounced matters.