FCA Said to Widen Search for Marchionne’s Successor

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV has broadened its search—though still within the company— for a CEO to succeed Sergio Marchionne in 2018, sources tell Bloomberg News.

Marchionne turns 65 on Saturday but plans to continue as chief executive for another two years. FCA realizes it’s unlikely to find a replacement with the skill to wield broad power as Marchionne does, according to Bloomberg’s sources. They say the company is considering a more conventional management structure that would spread out responsibilities.

Bloomberg says top contenders are two of Marchionne’s closest aides: Alfredo Altavilla, 53, who heads European operations; and Richard Palmer, 50, FCA’s chief financial officer.