 19.5.04
The following article,
written by Luca Ciferri, appeared in the 17 May 2004 issue of
Automotive
News Europe.
A three month trial of strength between Fiat group CEO Giuseppe
Morchio and Ferrari-Maserati boss Luca Cordero di Montezemolo ended
with a draw that is satisfactory to both.
At issue was who would run Ferrari and Maserati after Montezemolo
leaves later this month to head Confinustria, the powerful Italian
industry association.
Morchio wanted to install Martin Leach, his first candidate last
year as new Fiat Auto CEO, at the helm of both Ferrari and Maserati.
But Montezemolo vetoed the move.
Morchio then managed to put Leach into the CEO seat at Maserati,
where he replaces Antonello Perricone. Montezemolo appointed Perricone
in September 2002.
Montezemolo will continue as chairman of both Ferrari and Maserati
and will also retain his position as CEO of Ferrari, the parent
company of Maserati.
Montezemolo's two top lieutenants will run Ferrari on a day-to-day
basis. Jean Todt, the current head of the brand's racing activities,
will become COO. The head of production cars, Amedeo Felisa, will
become Ferrari deputy chief operating officer. |
