Renault Begins Global CEO Search Following De Meo Departure

Renault SA is rapidly searching for a new CEO following the unexpected resignation of Luca de Meo, who will leave the company by July 15 to pursue opportunities outside the automotive industry. The board, led by Chairman Jean-Dominique Senard, is considering both internal and external candidates, notably Denis Le Vot, head of Renault's Dacia brand, and Maxime Picat, Stellantis' purchasing chief. De Meo’s departure has caused Renault shares to drop significantly amid concerns over the company's future as it faces intense competition from Chinese automakers like BYD and ongoing trade tensions. The new CEO will need to steer Renault through a challenging market environment, continuing the transformation initiated by de Meo and addressing struggles such as the underperformance of the electric vehicle and software unit Ampere. Industry analysts emphasize the importance of a leader who can maintain Renault’s independence and build on strategic partnerships while competing in a rapidly evolving global automotive sector. Renault’s leadership transition signals a critical juncture for the company’s growth and innovation strategy amid broader shifts in the industry.