Renault has promoted Patrick Pelata from executive vice president to the new position of chief operating officer, giving him responsibility for the French carmaker's day-to-day operations.

The appointment will free Renault-Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn to concentrate on the French carmaker's strategic decision-making, as well as finance and public affairs activities.

Pelata will have authority over all members of Renault's executive committee, as well as the leaders of its various regional management groups.