RENAULT Group announced that it is “deeply saddened” to learn of the death, at the age of 83, of its former chair and CEO, Louis Schweitzer.

He held the positions with the company from 1992 to 2005 and was made honorary president of the Renault Group.

Renault said he was instrumental in setting the company’s growth strategy for the 21st century.

“Under his leadership, Renault Group was privatised in 1996, and he orchestrated the strategic Alliance with Nissan in 1999, a major turning point for the Renault Group,” the company said.

Renault former chair and CEO, Louis Schweitzer

“Louis Schweitzer was also the architect of the Dacia takeover in 1999, with a bold strategic vision: to create a reliable car at a very low cost for emerging markets.”

Renault Group chair Jean-Dominique Senard said: “On behalf of Renault Group, I would like to pay tribute to Louis Schweitzer, a visionary and bold leader whose commitment and high standards contributed to the modernisation and internationalisation of the group with iconic launches such as Twingo and Megane, the acquisition of Dacia, and the creation of the Renault-Nissan strategic alliance.

“He also championed a humanistic vision of business, combining economic performance with social responsibility. We extend our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.”

Renault Group CEO Francois Provost said: “It is with deep sadness that I learned of the passing of Louis Schweitzer, who led our company with vision and determination.

“Under his leadership, Renault Group underwent major transformations. The company’s evolution bears the mark of the strategic vision he instilled.

“On behalf of all our employees, I would like to pay tribute to the memory of an exceptional man and offer our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.”

Louis Schweitzer was born on July 8, 1942 in Geneva. He studied at Sciences Po Paris, then at the Ecole nationale d’administration (ENA), from which he graduated in 1970.

He began his career as an inspector of finance, a prestigious position in the French senior civil service before becoming chief of staff to Laurent Fabius who was then prime minister, from 1984 to 1986.

This political experience placed him at the heart of the French executive power and opened the doors to the industrial world.

In 1986, he joined Renault Group, first as chief financial officer, then as deputy chief executive officer.

In 1992, he became chairman and CEO of the Group, succeeding Raymond Levy. In 2005, he stepped down as chair of the Renault Group. Louis Schweitzer is Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour.