AutoNation Inc has named Stellantis executive Mike Manely as its next CEO. Manley will replace the outgoing Mike Jackson.
The changes will take place on Nov. 1 when Jackson, 72, officially retires from his post and the company’s board.
Manley, 57, served as the CEO of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles before its merger with PSA Group, when he was named head of Americas for Stellantis.
The former Stellantis CEO will be the fourth person holding the AutoNation CEO title since 2019
“I am excited to join AutoNation and the executive team,” Manley said in a statement. “AutoNation has set the benchmark for automotive retail excellence. It has accomplished a number of industry first milestones, including being the only automotive retailer to sell over 13 million vehicles. Most recently, the company has shown its focus and determination by producing five consecutive record-breaking quarters, during an unprecedented time.”
Manley also said in a statement released by Stellantis: “After 20 incredible, challenging and enjoyable years, and with Stellantis performing so strongly under Carlos’ (Tavares) leadership, the time feels right for me to open a new chapter.”
Jackson expressed what an honor it was to serve AutoNation as CEO for 22 years and his confidence in Manley to lead the organization.
“We have built an admired and respected company from coast to coast,” Jackson said in a statement. “I am forever grateful to all associates for our achievements and thank them from the bottom of my heart for all their efforts, especially through the pandemic.”
Manley started his career with DaimlerChrysler in 2002, where he was director of network development in the United Kingdom. In 2008, he moved to product planning and sales outside North America, and later served as executive vice president of international sales and global product planning operations. He also served as CEO of Jeep and Ram and as COO for the company’s Asia Pacific region.
Stellantis named Mark Stewart, COO of North America, and Antonio Filosa, COO of Latin America, as Manley stepped down. Both will report directly to CEO Carlos Tavares.
Manley will join the board of the Stellantis Foundation.
Tavares called Manley a partner, colleague and friend in the Stellantis statement.
“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,” Tavares said in a statement. “So, while I’m personally sorry to no longer have Mike as a colleague, I'm equally delighted for his new CEO role.”
