British woman is new Citroën CEO

A BRITISH woman has been appointed head of French car manufacturer Citroën.

Linda Jackson, 55, will take over from current CEO Frédéric Banzet on June 1.

Mr Banzet is taking on a senior role as PSA shareholder Société Foncière, Financière et de Participations (FFP).

Warwick University graduate Ms Jackson boasts more than 35 years experience in the motor industry in a variety of financial and commercial roles, including finance director for both Rover France and Citroën France.

She is currently managing director of Citroën in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Ms Jackson will be the first woman to head Citroën in its history - and the third woman to take the helm at an international car manufacturer.

Annette Winkler has been CEO of Smart since 2010, while Mary Barra became General Motors’ boss on January 15 this year.

Ms Jackson’s appointment was announced as part of a major top-level shake-up at PSA Peugeot-Citroën, Europe’s second largest car manufacturer, as it seeks to return to profit by 2016.

On the same day that Ms Jackson starts her new job, Yves Bonnefont will become head of the DS “marque”. He has been charged with accelerating the development of DS as a premium brand.

Ms Jackson and Mr Bonnefont - and Peugeot boss Maxime Picat - will report to new group CEO Carlos Tavares.

Her replacement as MD of Citroën in the UK and Ireland has not been announced.

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