Renault Chief Executive Luca de Meo plans to step down in mid-July and pursue new challenges outside the automotive industry, with French newspaper Le Figaro reporting he is set to become the new boss of Gucci-owner Kering.

French luxury group Kering SA (PPRUY) has named Luca de Meo its next chief executive officer, tapping the top leader of Renault SA (RNLSY) to leverage his turnaround experience in the automotive sector for the luxury retail industry.

News of Renault Chief Executive Luca de Meo's decision to leave the French carmaker and sources saying he is being lined up to take charge at luxury goods group Kering has created a stir across their respective sectors.