The Renault-Nissan alliance has hired Jim Press, a US-based auto industry veteran who previously worked for Toyota and Chrysler, as a consultant on sales and marketing projects.
Press, 63, left Chrysler when he was unable to agree a new deal with Fiat, after a two-year spell with the company when it was owned by Cerberus. He had previously worked at Toyota for 37 years, eventually heading its US sales operations and becoming the first non-Japanese to be elected to its board of directors.
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Mr Press’ consultancy contract started earlier this year, but the length of the contract is confidential.
Press’ brief is likely to include the strengthening of Nissan’s dealer network in the US. There is also some speculation that Press could be given a permanent job within the Alliance, potentially smoothing the way for Carlos Tavares – who runs Nissan’s US operations – to move into a more senior position within the Renault-Nissan Alliance.
