In a move that signals both a return to roots and a forward leap into the future, Citroën has appointed Xavier Chardon as its new CEO, effective June 2, 2025. This appointment isn’t just a changing of the guard it’s a statement of intent. With more than three decades of global automotive experience, Chardon brings a rich legacy of leadership, strategy, and innovation. Remarkably, he began his career at Citroën, and now, like a seasoned navigator returning to helm a new voyage, he returns with the deep insights and refined vision gained from his tenure at Volkswagen Group, where he served as Head of Sales for Europe and Chairman of Volkswagen Group France.
As he steps into this pivotal role, Chardon will report directly to Jean-Philippe Imparato, COO of Stellantis (Enlarged Europe), taking charge at a time when the automotive world is shifting gears. Citroën, a brand known for its bold design DNA and democratic innovation, is gearing up to compete more aggressively in an electrified and digitally connected era of mobility. Under Chardon’s leadership, the brand is expected to recalibrate its strategy with precision balancing heritage and modernity while targeting meaningful growth and market relevance in a highly competitive landscape.
This is more than a leadership change it’s an evolution in direction. Citroën’s next chapter will likely be shaped by Chardon’s deep understanding of European markets, his proven track record in scaling sales operations, and his innate connection to the brand’s ethos. As the auto industry continues to accelerate toward sustainability, smart mobility, and user-centric innovation, Citroën is now in the driver’s seat with a leader built for the road ahead.
With Chardon at the helm, all eyes will be on how Citroën navigates the intersections of tradition, transformation, and technology not just to keep up, but to lead with confidence.