Swedish manufacturer Saab announced the departure of its president, Jan Åke Jonsson, as of May 19, 2011, after six years at the helm. Jonsson, 59, says he’s decided to concentrate on areas of his life other than work.
“I have been with Saab Automobile for almost my entire career of 40 years, of which almost six years as the head of Saab Automobile. The last three years have of course been very demanding and forced me to focus on one thing only – my work. Now it is time for me to also spend some time on other things that had to stand back for my duties to Saab Automobile,” says Jonsson.
Chief executive officer of Spyker Victor Muller commented the news: “Jan Åke has not only been instrumental in Saab Automobile’s survival but also in the transition of Saab into an independent car company. I am really sad to see him leave, but understand and respect his rationale. He has had one of the toughest jobs in Sweden in recent years and […] has led the efforts to create a platform from which Saab will become a strong and independent Swedish car manufacturer”.
Saab is already looking for Jonsson’s successor, and the businessman will assist Saab to ensure a smooth transition. Until a new head is nominated, Victor Muller will serve as acting president and CEO of Saab.
“I have been with Saab Automobile for almost my entire career of 40 years, of which almost six years as the head of Saab Automobile. The last three years have of course been very demanding and forced me to focus on one thing only – my work. Now it is time for me to also spend some time on other things that had to stand back for my duties to Saab Automobile,” says Jonsson.
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| Jan Åke Jonsson (Photo: Saab) |
Chief executive officer of Spyker Victor Muller commented the news: “Jan Åke has not only been instrumental in Saab Automobile’s survival but also in the transition of Saab into an independent car company. I am really sad to see him leave, but understand and respect his rationale. He has had one of the toughest jobs in Sweden in recent years and […] has led the efforts to create a platform from which Saab will become a strong and independent Swedish car manufacturer”.
Saab is already looking for Jonsson’s successor, and the businessman will assist Saab to ensure a smooth transition. Until a new head is nominated, Victor Muller will serve as acting president and CEO of Saab.