Sergio Marchionne, Fiat Group CEO, is assuming the role of CEO at Fiat Auto, replacing Herbert Demel, who is leaving the company.

“Today’s decision to take direct responsibility of Fiat Auto is aimed at concentrating Fiat Group’s efforts on the recovery and re-launch of Fiat Auto,” says Marchionne.

“The agreement reached with General Motors saw Fiat’s rights confirmed and represents a fundamental step in Fiat Auto’s future.

“It is now possible to operate in total autonomy, without constraints but also without alibis. We must dedicate ourselves completely to the fundamentals of an automobile manufacturer: products, sales network and customer services.

“In Fiat Auto and Fiat SpA a profound cultural transformation is underway following a management reorganisation that has delivered a more agile and efficient structure. A structure based on accountability and speed of decision-making processes.

This is bringing and will continue to bring greater cost-reduction and operational benefits, contributing to a recovery in the competitivity of our assets,” continued Marchionne.

Marchionne also stated that out of all the Fiat Group sectors, Fiat Auto must be the ‘principal focus’ and other sectors are working well to achieve objectives.