Kia Motors Australia gains new CEO

November 2011

Kia Motors Australia has lost its president and chief executive officer to one of the marque's international operations.

President MK Kim has left his Australian post, after being appointed head of Kia's Middle East and Africa business - a region that sells almost 300,000 of the manufacturer's units each year.

"It is a very exciting and challenging new role, but it is not without regrets that I am leaving Australia," Mr Kim said.

During Mr Kim's two year reign, Kia Australia experienced a significant rise in cars sold - unprecedented growth that was also seen around the world.

"It is not easy to be leaving when the plans and goals we have set in place are beginning to bear fruit, but I am confident that my replacement and the management team I leave behind will continue along the path to greater success," Mr Kim said.

Yesterday (November 14) marked the first day Mr Kim's successor - former co-ordinating director for sales Chong Woo (Charlie) Kim - took over the position.

"I am excited, honoured and very pleased that this opportunity has come my way in a market as vibrant and challenging as that in Australia," the new president said.