WHO IS HE? De Meo, 58, is from Milan, Italy, and has more than 30 years' experience working in the automotive sector. He graduated from the Luigi Bocconi Commercial University wit

The appointment of de Meo, 58, marks a big change at Kering, owner of the Gucci and Saint Laurent brands, where François-Henri Pinault, a member of the family that controls the group, has been chair and chief executive for 20 years.

The former chief executive of the carmaker Renault will replace Francois-Henri Pinault as the struggling company seeks a turnaround.

Under a new arrangement, the role of Chief Executive Officer will be separated from that of Chairman of the Board of Directors, currently held by François-Henri Pinault

The luxury group confirmed speculations reported by a number of media outlets this weekend. Pinault will retain his role as Kering chair.

A series of delicate issues awaits the Italian executive, who comes from Renault: an unfavorable economic climate, significant group debt and the collapse of sales at flagship brand Gucci. Financial markets have responded positively to the announcement of his appointment.

PARIS (Reuters) -Shares in Kering rose in early trading on Monday while stocks in Renault fell after reports the French carmaker's CEO Luca de Meo was poised to become the new chief executive of the luxury goods maker.

The struggling French luxury group is set to name Renault Chief Executive Luca de Meo as CEO, replacing Francois-Henri Pinault, people familiar with the matter said.