Most Old Boys Step Down, Generational Change
'Future Food Discovery' R&D Promotion Rate 37%
One-Third of Promotees in Their 40s... 'Change and Innovation'
[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyewon] Hyundai Motor Group has carried out the largest-ever promotion by appointing 203 new executives. In this personnel reshuffle, the second since Chairman Chung Euisun took office, one out of every three promoted executives is in their 40s, clearly demonstrating a generational shift and a merit-based approach. Additionally, the proportion of executives in the research and development sector has been expanded to 37%, reflecting a strong commitment to strengthening future growth businesses such as electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and infotainment.
On the 17th, Hyundai Motor Group announced its regular executive appointments for the second half of the year based on these points. First, a generational change took place as most of the 'old boys' who had closely supported Honorary Chairman Chung Mongkoo stepped down. Vice Chairman Yoon Yeo-cheol, an expert in labor affairs, President Ha Eontae, CEO of Hyundai Motor and head of the Ulsan plant, President Lee Wonhee, in charge of Hyundai Motor’s quality, and President Lee Gwangguk, head of Hyundai Motor’s China business, all retired. President Peter Schreyer, in charge of design, and President Albert Biermann, head of the R&D division, also stepped down in this reshuffle. Park Jungguk, who had served as deputy head, was appointed as Biermann’s successor.
The number of newly promoted executives was a record high of 203. Among the newly promoted executives, one-third were in their 40s, clearly marking a generational shift.
The proportion of newly promoted executives in the R&D sector also reached 37%, showing a focus on appointing next-generation leaders to transition the future business portfolio. Talents who will lead the strengthening of competitiveness in key new technology and business areas such as infotainment, ICT, and autonomous driving were strategically placed.
The main figures include Executive Directors Choo Kyowung, head of Hyundai Motor’s Infotainment Development Center and Electronics Development Center; Executive Director Kim Heungsu, head of the Future Growth Planning Office and EV Business Division; Executive Director Lee Sangyup, head of Hyundai Design Center; and Executive Director Lim Taewon, head of the Basic Advanced Research Institute and Hydrogen Fuel Cell Business Division, all of whom were promoted to Vice Presidents. Jin Eunsook, former NHN CTO, was recruited and appointed as Vice President and head of the ICT Innovation Headquarters. Executive Director Jang Woongjun, head of the Autonomous Driving Business Division, and Executive Director Kim Junghui, head of AIRS Company, were each promoted to Executive Director.
Promotions based on overseas business performance were also made. Kim Seonseop, Executive Director and head of Hyundai Motor’s Global Business Management Headquarters, was promoted to Vice President, and Oh Ikgyun, Executive Director and head of Hyundai Motor’s Russia Region Headquarters, was also promoted to Vice President.
To strengthen the competitiveness of the luxury car brand Genesis, Graham Russell, who built strategic planning and marketing expertise at luxury brands such as Bentley and Macallan, was recruited as Genesis CBO (Chief Brand Officer).
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