Marelli, a global Tier 1 automotive supplier, has announced a series of leadership appointments aimed at strengthening its management team during a pivotal phase for the company. Frederick “Fritz” Henderson has been named Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately, succeeding David Slump. Slump will continue to serve on Marelli’s Board of Directors through the company’s emergence from its ongoing Chapter 11 restructuring process.
In a separate development, the Ad Hoc Group of Marelli’s lenders has outlined plans to appoint Laurent Favre as the company’s future Chief Executive Officer following the completion of Henderson’s interim tenure.
Henderson brings decades of global leadership experience across the automotive and industrial sectors, along with a proven track record in driving operational improvements, strengthening financial discipline, and leading complex transformations. His previous roles include Chief Executive Officer of General Motors, CEO and Chairman of SunCoke Energy, and non-executive Chairman of Adient. His experience is expected to support Marelli through its current transition and position the company for long-term stability and growth.
In addition, Marelli announced the appointments of Roberto Fioroni as Chief Financial Officer and Helen Redfern as Chief Human Resources Officer, both effective May 1, 2026. Fioroni will succeed Alanna Abrahamson and joins from Dowlais Plc, where he served as Chief Financial Officer. Redfern also joins from Dowlais Plc, where she held the position of Chief People Officer, bringing extensive experience in organizational leadership and talent strategy.
“These appointments are designed to transition Marelli’s leadership team as we seek to complete our restructuring. Fritz’s operating experience and automotive expertise will be invaluable to Marelli as we work through the final months of this process,” said Executive Chairman of the Board Dinesh Paliwal.
“Marelli is distinguished by its exceptional technology, long-standing customer relationships and tremendous global talent,” said Henderson. “As Marelli’s Interim CEO, my focus is on ensuring stability and continuity while translating the company’s strengths and potential into sustainable performance and long-term value. In the near term, my priorities are to finalize our strategic roadmap and support a successful emergence from Chapter 11. I am also pleased to welcome Roberto Fioroni as CFO and Helen Redfern as CHRO. Their experience and capabilities will further strengthen Marelli and support the company through this important transition and into its next phase of growth.”
As Marelli’s new CFO, Fioroni brings 20 years of financial leadership experience and a track record of driving financial discipline, operational efficiency and strategic transformation in global industrial environments, including the automotive sector. He previously held senior roles at General Electric, Goodyear and Wabco.
As Marelli’s new CHRO, Redfern brings global HR leadership experience across multiple sectors, including the automotive industry and has a track record of driving commercial performance through people strategies. She previously worked at leading organizations including Kier Group, Ferguson and Sainsbury’s.
“The Board thanks David Slump for his contributions to the company’s operational and commercial restructuring and for guiding the business through a critical period under Chapter 11, ensuring continuity and stability across our global operations,” Paliwal said. “We are grateful for his leadership, discipline and commitment to Marelli and its stakeholders.”
Slump commented, “As Marelli finalizes its strategic roadmap and prepares for its next phase of growth, now is a natural time to transition leadership. I’m proud of our team’s achievements over the past four years, particularly the steps taken in innovation and technology, and I am optimistic that Marelli will continue to build on its legacy following emergence from chapter 11. I want to thank Alanna for her leadership and contributions and wish her the best in future endeavors.”
