Skip advert
Advertisement

Ex-Fiat Chrysler boss Sergio Marchionne dies, aged 66

Former Fiat Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne has died just days after being replaced as brand boss due to ill health

Sergio Marchionne - Fiat Chrysler

Sergio Marchionne, the man responsible for turning around the fortunes of the FCA (Fiat Chrysler) Group, has died aged 66. Brit Mike Manley replaced Marchionne as Fiat Chrysler CEO only last week, as the Italian’s health worsened following surgery on his shoulder.

The tragic news appeared online this morning, after it was confirmed by Fiat holding company Exor NV.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Mike Manley replaces Sergio Marchionne as Fiat Chrysler boss

In a statement, John Elkann, chairman of the controlling Agnelli family said: “Unfortunately, what we feared has come to pass. Sergio Marchionne, man and friend, is gone.

"I believe that the best way to honour his memory is to build on the legacy he left us, continuing to develop the human values of responsibility and openness of which he was the most ardent champion," Elkann said.

Marchionne became Fiat SpA CEO in 2004, when the company was then on the verge of bankruptcy. He is credited with turning the firm’s fortunes around – pioneering and managing the FCA merger in 2011. He had planned to step down in 2019, but his deteriorating health forced the company to appoint Manley earlier than expected.

Only last month, Marchionne sat in front of hundreds of journalists and investors to announce FCA’s latest five-year business plan. He outlined key targets for Jeep, Alfa Romeo and Maserati, as well as details on Fiat’s plans to focus on electrified small cars. The forecast included 11 new Jeep models, including four battery electric cars by 2022.

We’ll have more news and information as it emerges.

Sergio Marchionne was due to step down in 2019: read about the tough task his successor will face...

Skip advert
Advertisement
Deputy editor

Richard has been part of the team for over a decade. During this time he has covered a huge amount of news and reviews for Auto Express, as well as being the face of Carbuyer and DrivingElectric on Youtube. In his current role as deputy editor, he is now responsible for keeping our content flowing and managing our team of talented writers.

Find a car with the experts

Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Citroen Holidays 2025 review: a cheaper and cheerful VW California campervan rival
Citroen Holidays - front

New Citroen Holidays 2025 review: a cheaper and cheerful VW California campervan rival

The new Citroen Holidays is the perfect option for those that want to camp on a budget
Road tests
15 Apr 2025
New baby Nissan Juke EV on the way to challenge the Dacia Spring
Baby Nissan Juke exclusive image - rear

New baby Nissan Juke EV on the way to challenge the Dacia Spring

Nissan to fast-track development of new battery-powered city car to take on forthcoming Volkswagen ID.1, and our exclusive images preview how it could…
News
18 Apr 2025
New Subaru Outback morphs into an SUV for Mk7 generation
Subaru Outback New York - front

New Subaru Outback morphs into an SUV for Mk7 generation

The boxer engine and off-road focus has been retained despite the Outback’s new SUV look
News
17 Apr 2025