Renault has found a replacement for the CEO position instead of Luca de Meo, who joined Kering

French automotive giant Renault has appointed Francois Provo as its new CEO. This decision was made by the Board of Directors of Renault Group, according to LIGA.net the company's press service.

Provo, who has 23 years of experience with the company, was appointed effective July 31. Since 2023, he has been Director of Procurement, Partnerships and Government Relations at Renault.

"Thanks to his deep international experience in both operational and strategic areas, his deep understanding of industry challenges and his strategic vision, François Provo has the necessary qualities to continue and accelerate the development of the Renault Group," the release said.

Previous CEO of the company – Luca de Meo – announced his decision to resign from his post on July 15 to take up the position of CEO of Kering, the owner of Gucci.

The new CEO will have to complete reorganization of the alliance Renault with its Japanese partner Nissan and to determine the company's position on China after de Meo gathered a team of engineers there and discussed the prospects of a promising partnership with Geely, writes Bloomberg.

The French government expects Provo to "continue the transformation of the manufacturer by continuing to develop its industrial presence in France," said Finance Minister Eric Lombard.

Nissan and the French government own approximately 15% of Renault's shares, while Renault owns almost 36% of Nissan's shares.

Renault shares have fallen by almost 30% this year after rising by more than a quarter in 2024.

Provo joined Renault in 2002 after working for the French government. He rose through the ranks under several CEOs and worked for the automaker in Portugal, China and Russia.

In 2022, he helped Renault negotiate a withdrawal from Russian business after the country's invasion of Ukraine.

• In June 2025, it became known that Renault is likely to start producing drones in Ukraine.