Carlos Ghosn

Carlos Ghosn. A Brazilian-born French-Lebanese businessman, he became one of the most prominent and powerful figures in the global automotive industry during the late 20th and early 21st centuries. He is best known for orchestrating the dramatic turnaround of Nissan in the late 1990s and for serving as the architect and chairman of the Renault–Nissan–Mitsubishi Alliance, one of the world's largest automotive groups. His career ended in international scandal following his arrest in Tokyo for alleged financial misconduct, and his subsequent audacious escape from Japan while on bail.

Early life and education

Born in Porto Velho, Brazil, to Lebanese parents, he moved with his family to Beirut, Lebanon, at a young age. He pursued higher education in France, graduating with engineering degrees from the prestigious École Polytechnique and Mines ParisTech. He later earned a PhD in economics from the University of Paris. His multilingual background and elite technical education laid the foundation for a career in international management, beginning at the tire manufacturer Michelin.

Career at Renault and Nissan

After rising through the ranks at Michelin, he joined Renault in 1996 as executive vice president. His successful cost-cutting and restructuring efforts at the French automaker, known as "Le Cost Killer," led to his pivotal appointment in 1999 as chief operating officer of the struggling Japanese automaker Nissan, following Renault's acquisition of a controlling stake. He implemented the radical Nissan Revival Plan, which involved closing plants, shedding debt, and revitalizing the company's model lineup, returning Nissan to profitability within two years. This success earned him the nickname "Mr. Fix It" in Japan and led to his roles as CEO of both Nissan and Renault, and later as chairman of the broader Renault–Nissan–Mitsubishi Alliance.

Financial misconduct allegations and arrest

In November 2018, he was arrested at Haneda Airport in Tokyo by the Tokyo District Public Prosecutors Office on charges of financial misconduct. The allegations, which he consistently denied, included underreporting his compensation in Nissan's financial statements and misusing company assets for personal gain. He was dismissed from his positions as chairman at Nissan and Mitsubishi Motors, and Renault later removed him as chairman and CEO. He spent over 100 days in detention at the Kosuge Detention Center before being released on bail under strict conditions, including surveillance and restrictions on communication.

Escape from Japan

While awaiting trial in Japan under strict bail conditions, he orchestrated a daring escape in December 2019. He evaded surveillance by leaving his house in Tokyo and traveling to Osaka by bullet train. At Kansai International Airport, he was smuggled aboard a private Bombardier Global Express jet inside a large audio equipment case. The flight, with stops in Istanbul and Ankara, ultimately landed in Beirut, Lebanon, a country with which Japan has no extradition treaty. The elaborate operation, reportedly assisted by a team of private security contractors, caused an international sensation and severe embarrassment for the Japanese authorities.

Aftermath and legal proceedings

Following his escape, Interpol issued a Red Notice at the request of Japan. He held a press conference in Beirut vehemently attacking the Japanese justice system, which he characterized as "rigged." Legal proceedings continued internationally, with French authorities also opening investigations into his financial dealings. In 2022, a Turkish court convicted several individuals, including pilots, for their role in the escape. The Renault–Nissan–Mitsubishi Alliance underwent significant restructuring in the wake of the scandal. He remains in Lebanon, facing an international arrest warrant but protected from extradition, while continuing to defend his legacy and actions.

Category:1954 births Category:Living people Category:Brazilian businesspeople Category:French businesspeople Category:Lebanese businesspeople Category:Renault people Category:Nissan people