Hyundai Motor Company has appointed José Muñoz as its new CEO, making history as the first foreigner to hold the position at the South Korean automaker. José Muñoz, who has been with Hyundai as global chief operating officer overseeing North and South American markets, will officially take on the role on January 1, 2025. He succeeds Jaehoon Chang, who will transition to the position of vice-chairman of Hyundai’s automotive division.
Muñoz brings decades of experience from his previous role at Nissan Motor Corporation, where he served as chairman of its China operations. His extensive background in the global automotive industry is expected to be a crucial asset as Hyundai navigates challenges in its transition to electric vehicles and adapts to evolving policies, such as recent changes to U.S. tax credits for EV purchases. Along with Muñoz’s appointment, Hyundai also named Sung Kim as president and Jun Young Choi as president of Kia Corp., its sister company.
