Stellantis’ Mike Manley to lead US car retailer AutoNation as CEO

Stellantis head of Americas Mike Manley is set to replace long-standing AutoNation chief executive Mike Jackson as chief executive of the US car retail group.

British-born former Jeep boss Manley was appointed as the FCA Group’s chief executive when Sergio Marchionne stepped down in 2018 but later became Stellantis’ head of Americas after FCA’s merger with the PSA Group.

Now he is set to join AutoNation on November 1, replacing Mike Jackson, who has been at the helm of the $20.4 billion (£14.9bn) turnover business for over two decades.

Manley’s leadership team for the Americas – comprising North America chief operating officer Mark Stewart and Latin America chief operating officer Antonio Filosa – will now answer directly to Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares.

Commenting on his move, Manley said: “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.

“Working with Carlos to create this extraordinary company, with the constant support of our shareholders, has been a huge privilege both professionally and personally.

“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 honoured to have been asked to join the Stellantis Foundation Board.”

Tavares said: “It’s been my privilege to know Mike first as a competitor, then as a partner and colleague in the creation of Stellantis, but most importantly, always as a friend.

“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.

“So, while I’m personally sorry to no longer have Mike as a colleague, I’m equally delighted for his new CEO role and glad that he will be joining the Board of the Stellantis Foundation.”

Stellantis chairman executive director, John Elkann, said: “I’d like to thank Mike for all that he has done over his twenty years with us.

“His time at the head of Jeep were 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.

“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.”