Saab CEO Jan Î…ke Jonsson retires

Saab has announced that its CEO, Jan Î…ke Jonsson, is to retire. Jonsson’s last day will be 19 May when Saab’s owner, Spyker Cars NV, holds its Annual General Shareholders meeting.

Jonsson has worked for Saab for almost 40 years, and has spent the last six as its CEO. Speaking about his decision, Jonsson said, “The last three years have of course been very demanding and forced me to focus on one thing only – my work. Now it is time for me to also spend some time on other things that had to stand back for my duties to Saab Automobile.”

The search for his successor has begun, with Jonsson remaining at the firm until September to ensure a smooth transition of leadership. In the meantime, Spyker CEO Victor Muller will take on the Saab CEO job.

Jonsson has also spoken about his pride in managing to replace Saab’s entire product portfolio, and introduced new cars like the forthcoming 9-4X to the range. He also confirmed that the new 9-3 will be launched in October 2012.

 “We have already accomplished so many things that many thought were impossible and I am convinced that Saab Automobile is on the right track towards replacing the entire product portfolio by October 2012 - when the next generation 9-3 will be launched - as well as creating a stand-alone company with a financially sound business model.”

As well as announcing Jonsson's retirement, the firm has also confirmed that it has signed a deal with Moscow based Armand Import to overhaul Saab's sales in Russia, beginning in mid-2011. The firm is also looking east by signing a deal with China Automobile Trading Co (CATC), which will see Saab cars imported and distributed in China from September 2011. The firm hopes its 9-5 and new 9-4X will be big hits in the world's largest car market.

© 2012 Dennis Publishing Limited. All rights reserved.
Licensed by Felden