Hyundai Appoints Jose Muñoz as Global CEO, Marking Historic Leadership Change!

Hyundai Motor Company has announced the promotion of Jose Muñoz, the current Chief Operating Officer, to the position of Global CEO, effective January 1. Muñoz will succeed Jaehoon Chang, who will transition to the role of Vice Chair in Hyundai’s automotive division.

Muñoz, a Spaniard, makes history as the first non-Korean CEO in Hyundai’s history since its founding in 1967. He joined the company in 2019 and has been instrumental in driving profitability and market share growth, particularly in North America. Hyundai credits Muñoz with transforming its sales strategies, focusing on profitability and operational efficiency, which has significantly contributed to the company’s success.

Under Muñoz’s leadership, Hyundai and its luxury brand, Genesis, have achieved record-breaking sales and financial performance. His prior experience at Nissan, where he oversaw considerable profit and sales growth, brings a wealth of expertise to his new role at Hyundai.

As CEO, Muñoz will focus on accelerating Hyundai’s electrification efforts, including the upcoming launch of the Ioniq 9 and plans to introduce over 20 electric models by 2030. Additionally, he will continue expanding Hyundai’s hydrogen vehicle offerings, with a new version of the Nexo SUV in the works.

Expressing his gratitude, Muñoz stated that he is honored to lead Hyundai during this transformative period and is committed to furthering its growth while keeping the customer at the center of its strategy.