Gucci parent, Kering, appointed Renault's former CEO, Luca de Meo, as its chief executive, as the company struggles to improve its weak performance.

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.

By Tassilo Hummel PARIS (Reuters) -Renault CEO Luca de Meo is leaving the French carmaker to pursue a role outside the auto industry, the company said on Sunday, and newspaper Le Figaro reported he would become the new chief executive of Gucci-owner Kering.