The Fiat Chrysler Group has made history by appointing Veronica Johns as its new Australian CEO, as part of several management changes.
When Johns assumes the role of Fiat Chrysler Group Australia CEO on 1st May 2013, she will become the first Australian woman to hold such a position.
Taking over from Clyde Campbell, who announced in January that he would be moving into the role of general distributor for Fiat Chrysler New Zealand, Johns was “the obvious choice” to succeed Campbell after already having a career with the Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge brands for 14 years.
According to a release from the US-based company, “her knowledge of the Australian market and her achievements as Fiat Chrysler Group Australia’s Director of Sales made her the obvious choice to succeed Mr Campbell”.
Further management changes announced include Matthew Wiesner – former director of Skoda Australia – being appointed chief operating officer and director of sales and Tim Stuckey – former executive general manager of sales and marketing at Nissan Australia – appointed director of aftersales.
In Australia, the Fiat Chrysler Group comprises the Fiat, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Alfa Romeo brands.
While Johns will be the first Australian woman to head a local division of a global vehicle manufacturer, other females to make their marks on the local industry include Volkswagen Group Australia’s managing director, Anke Koeckler, and her predecessor Jutta Dierks.