Mike Manley, the former CEO of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, is stepping down from his role as Head of Americas for Stellantis to become the new CEO of AutoNation Inc., America’s largest automotive retailer.
“After 20 incredible, challenging, and enjoyable years, and with Stellantis performing so strongly under Carlos’ leadership, the time feels right for me to open a new chapter,” said Manley. “I’m so proud of our Stellantis teams for their extraordinary work and I wish Carlos and them every success as they continue their great adventure. Finally, I am very honored to have been asked to join the Stellantis Foundation board.”
A direct replacement for Manley has not been named, but Stellantis, in a statement, said that its COO for North America, Mark Stewart, and its COO for Latin America, Antonio Filosa, would report directly to the group’s CEO, Carlos Tavares.
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“From the very earliest days of our discussions, we shared a truly common vision, belief, and commitment and it’s on these solid foundations, built over the past several years, that Stellantis has delivered its impressive early results,” said Tavares. “So, while I’m personally sorry to no longer have Mike as a colleague, I’m equally delighted for his new CEO role.”
Manley took the role of CEO at FCA following the announcement that Sergio Marchionne was stepping down due to health concerns in 2018. He ascended to the role from his position as CEO of the Jeep brand. He had joined FCA in 2008 as executive vice president of planning and sales for Chrysler.
The executive has previous experience in car sales, though, having started his career working in car financing, then at dealerships in his native England.
“His time as the head of Jeep was transformational for that flagship brand and then as the CEO of FCA, he led the company to record results through some of its most challenging moments,” said John Elkann, chairperson at Stellantis. “Working closely with Carlos, he was instrumental in the creation and successful launch of Stellantis. We wish him all the very best in his new role.”
