New Renault CEO, who is François Provost?
This page is translated from the original post "Nouveau patron de Renault, qui est François Provost ?" in French.
- 30/07/2025 18:43
Renault has officially announced the appointment of François Provost as the group’s General Director, replacing Luca de Meo.
The appointment marks a strategic direction firmly focused on internal continuity for Renault, betting on a behind-the-scenes man known for his discretion and cross-functional expertise.
Born in 1968, François Provost is a graduate of École Polytechnique and École des Mines de Paris, holding the prestigious status of chief engineer of the Corps des Mines. He began his career within the Ministry of Economy and Finance, at the Treasury Directorate, and then with the Ministry of Defense.
He joined Renault in 2002 as branch director and then regional director in France. In 2005, he became the General Director of Renault-Nissan Portugal, then director of strategy and commercial planning, before being appointed deputy general director of Renault Russia. In September 2011, he took over Renault Samsung Motors in South Korea.
In 2016–2017, he led operations in China and then in the Asia-Pacific region. In October 2020, he joined the international development and partnerships management of the group, then took on the responsibility for public affairs in January 2022. As of February 2023, he combines the roles of Group Purchasing Director (Alliance Purchasing Organization) and public affairs and partnerships.
The strategic choice of a behind-the-scenes man
His appointment comes in a context of turbulence. Luca de Meo left his position on July 15, 2025, to join luxury group Kering. Since then, Duncan Minto, the Chief Financial Officer, has been serving as interim. Renault was looking for a strong internal profile to ensure stability and revival ahead of the publication of the first half of 2025 results.
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A former right-hand man of de Meo, Provost played a central role in the recovery plan named Renaulution, unveiled in November 2022, focused on electrification, upgrading, and a strategic repositioning of the group. He led purchases, partnerships with giants like Geely and Aramco, and the reorganization of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance.
In summary, Renault is betting on an experienced profile, recognized for his versatility, operational expertise, and international relationships. It will be interesting to follow the upcoming results and the evolution of this governance…
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