Fugitive auto honcho Carlos Ghosn has launched a new initiative to train budding business executives in his native Lebanon while he hides out from financial-crime charges.
The former Nissan CEO announced plans Tuesday to set up an executive management program at the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik located north of Beirut, where Ghosn fled in December as he awaited a criminal trial in Tokyo.
Ghosn’s partnership with the school, dubbed “Moving Forward,” will also provide technology training and support for startups. It aims to help restore confidence in Lebanon as the nation grapples with a massive financial and economic crisis that was exacerbated by the horrific Aug. 4 explosion in Beirut.
“This is about creating jobs, employment and entrepreneurs to allow society to take its role in the reconstruction of the country,” Ghosn said at a news conference on the new initiative.
“If you bring back trust, money will come,” he added. “You can have an excellent plan for Lebanon but if you don’t execute it you are not even at starting point.”
Several international business figures — including Jaguar and Land Rover chief Thierry Bolloré and former Goldman Sachs vice chairman Ken Curtis — have agreed to offer executive training courses that are expected to start in March, Ghosn said.
Tuesday’s press conference was only Ghosn’s second public appearance since his elaborate escape from Tokyo to Lebanon last December, which allegedly involved a bullet train, private jets and a black audio gear box in which authorities say Ghosn hid for part of the journey.
Some people in Lebanon view Ghosn as a hero who successfully turned around French and Japanese automakers despite the pending criminal case against him in Japan. Prosecutors there say he under-reported his compensation and siphoned company cash while at Nissan — allegations Ghosn has strongly denied.
Ghosn’s announcement came as Japan moved to extradite two Americans — former Green Beret Michael Taylor and his son Peter Taylor — who are accused of helping Ghosn flee Tokyo.
Former Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn talks to journalists after a press conference in the northern Lebanese city of Jounieh today.
Anwar Amro/AFP via Getty Images
Carlos Ghosn speaks during a news conference in Lebanon today.
Wael Hamzeh/EPA
Carlos Ghosn takes a selfie after a news conference in Lebanon today.
Hussein Malla/AP
Carlos Ghosn speaks during a news conference in Lebanon today.
Mohamed Azakir/Reuters
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Former Nissan executive Mark Kelly has also pleaded not guilty to charges related to an alleged scheme to pay Ghosn more money than Nissan reported as compensation.
With Post wires
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