'I want to express my sincere appreciation for the unwavering dedication and service to Fiat and Fiat Industrial that Gianni has exhibited over the many years with our Groups.  He has shown exemplary leadership as he filled various roles across the world, and in particular, during his last 8 years with me as head of Group Purchasing and more recently as Chief Operating Officer, EMEA region. The men and women of Fiat Chrysler and Fiat Industrial owe him a great debt of gratitude,' said Sergio Marchionne, chief executive officer of Fiat S.p.A.

'I join Sergio Marchionne in expressing my gratitude, also on behalf of my family, for the outstanding contribution and dedication that Gianni Coda has exhibited towards the Fiat companies,' added John Elkann, chairman of Fiat S.p.A.