Carlos Ghosn

Carlos Ghosn is a Brazilian-born automotive executive known for leading the turnaround of Nissan and for holding top roles at Renault, Nissan, and Mitsubishi Motors.

Carlos Ghosn is a Brazilian-born automotive executive known for leading the turnaround of Nissan and for holding top roles at Renault, Nissan, and Mitsubishi Motors. He became one of the most prominent figures in the global auto industry, but his career was later overshadowed by criminal charges and allegations of financial misconduct in Japan.

Early life and education

Carlos Ghosn was born in Brazil on 9 March 1954. He later studied in France, earning engineering degrees from École Polytechnique and École des Mines de Paris.

Automotive career

Ghosn spent much of his career in the automotive industry, including work at Michelin and Renault before joining Nissan in 1999. He became known for managing major corporate turnarounds and for leading cross-border alliances.

Leadership of Renault, Nissan, and Mitsubishi

Ghosn became chief executive officer of Nissan in 2001 and also became chief executive officer of Renault in 2005, leading both companies simultaneously. After Nissan acquired a controlling interest in Mitsubishi Motors, he became chairman of Mitsubishi in 2016. His leadership helped build one of the world’s largest car groups.

Arrest and legal issues

In 2018, Ghosn was arrested in Japan and later faced multiple allegations involving under-reporting of income and financial misconduct. The case led to his removal from company leadership roles.