The former chief executive of the carmaker Renault will replace François-Henri Pinault as the struggling company seeks a turnaround.

I would like to thank François-Henri Pinault and the Board of Directors for choosing me to lead Kering into this new phase of development,” de Meo said in a statement. “I am approaching this new professional challenge with enthusiasm,

(Reuters) -Gucci-owner Kering has appointed Luca de Meo, currently CEO of French carmaker Renault, as its new chief executive, it said on Monday. Below are some facts about the new head of the French luxury group, whose brands include Gucci, Saint Laurent, and Bottega Veneta.

Gucci parent, Kering, appointed Renault's former CEO, Luca de Meo, as its chief executive, as the company struggles to improve its weak performance.

Luca de Meo, who joins the struggling luxury firm from car maker Renault, will succeed François-Henri Pinault, who will remain chairman of the board.

The following is a timeline of the major events in the French luxury fashion group's history. 1962 - Francois Pinault founds Etablissements Pinault, a timber trading company based in Rennes that will transform into Kering.

Luca de Meo, who resigned from carmaker Renault on Sunday, is widely tipped to succeed François-Henri Pinault at the management helm of the French luxury group.