De Meo chosen to take the reins at Renault

29 January 2020

Renault Group has appointed former SEAT boss Luca de Meo as its new CEO, with the company looking to draw a line under the reign of Carlos Ghosn.

De Meo left his position at SEAT earlier this month, with speculation mounting that he was the person Renault wanted to lead them in a new era. The Italian will take up the role in July 2020, with current interim CEO Clotilde Delbos appointed as his deputy.

′The Board of Directors considered that Luca de Meo, through his career, his experience and his success in his previous functions, combines all the qualities to contribute to all aspects of Groupe Renault’s development and transformation,’ the company said, referencing his successful time in charge of the Spanish vehicle manufacturer.

Growing experience

During his time at SEAT, the carmaker became one of the most profitable brands in the Volkswagen Group’s portfolio, increasing its sales when other marques suffered and establishing itself as a maker of good-quality vehicles and an alternative to more mainstream models.

SEAT saw its 2018 profits rising 24% to €286 million. Sales rose almost 10% in the first nine months of 2019, boosted by a new range of sport-utility vehicles and strong sales in southern Europe. De Meo also presided over the launch of a new strategic mobility business unit to integrate all product, service and platform-based mobility solutions.

Strong future

′I am delighted with this new governance, which marks a decisive step for the Group and the Alliance,’ said Jean-Dominique Senard, Chairman of the Board of Directors. ′Luca de Meo is a great strategist and visionary of a rapidly changing automotive world. His expertise but also his passion for cars make him a real asset for the Group.’

′I also thank Clotilde Delbos, who provides interim management of the Group in an exceptional manner. She has demonstrated day after day her commitment and determination in the service of Renault. Together, with the support of a renewed and strengthened executive committee, they will form a high-quality, multi-talented team equal to Renault’s ambitions,’ Senard added.

De Meo has been the leading contender to take over the CEO role at Renault since Thierry Bolloré was ousted last year. One of his first jobs will be to restore peace between the carmaker and its alliance partner Nissan, which has been on rocky ground since allegations of financial misconduct were levelled at former chairman Ghosn at the end of 2018.