Hyundai Motor Company has recently announced the promotion of José Muñoz as its new global chief executive officer (CEO). Muñoz, who previously held the role of global chief operating officer (COO) and CEO of Hyundai and Genesis Motor North America, is set to take on this new position as part of a broader management reshuffle aimed at strengthening the group’s leadership structure for sustainable growth in the future mobility business.
This historic appointment marks the first time that Hyundai has chosen a foreign national as its global CEO since the company’s inception almost five decades ago. Muñoz, a Spanish national, brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as chief performance officer at Nissan Motor Corporation and chairman of Nissan China.
The timing of Muñoz’s promotion is significant, especially in light of the re-election of former US President Donald Trump. Hyundai Motor believes that his appointment will help bolster the company’s global strategy and drive continued success in the ever-evolving automotive industry.
The outgoing CEO, Jae Hoon Chang, will assume the role of vice chairman of Hyundai Motor Group, the automaker’s parent company. In his new position, Chang will focus on advancing value chain innovation in the automotive business, optimizing operations, and maximizing synergies within the group.
Hyundai Motor Group has also made key appointments within its leadership team, including Sung Kim as President of Hyundai Motor Company, Jun Young Choi as President of Kia Corporation, and Kyoo Bok Lee as President of Hyundai Glovis. These appointments are part of the group’s commitment to a performance-based approach that aligns with outstanding achievements, aiming to strengthen organizational foundations and accelerate future transformation.
The company emphasized that these strategic appointments reflect its dedication to consolidating core competencies and placing proven leaders with strong track records in key positions. By doing so, Hyundai Motor Group aims to enhance its strategic intelligence capabilities, address global challenges, and drive sustainable growth in the rapidly changing automotive landscape.
As Hyundai Motor Group continues to evolve and adapt to the shifting industry landscape, the appointment of José Muñoz as global CEO signals a new chapter for the company’s leadership and strategic direction. With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and performance-driven leadership, Hyundai is poised to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the future mobility business successfully.
