Hyundai Motor Group (Hyundai-Kia) has reorganised its senior management tier in a move seen as helping to bring about a smooth transition of power and modernisation at the family run giant.

As speculated yesterday, it has also appointed a non-Korean – Albert Biermann – as R&D chief.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

Biermann is a former BMW executive and replaces longtime executives Yang Woong-chul and Kwon Moon-sik. Reuters noted that the move was being interpreted as a significant step to bring in fresh ideas at the Korean-dominated group.

Reuters also reported that some 17 top executives were reassigned across the group including at Hyundai Motor Co and Kia Motors Corp.

The move follows the promotion of Euisun Chung in September to Hyundai Motor’s executive vice chairman, moving him closer to succeeding his 80-year-old father, Mong-Koo Chung, as group chairman.

The report added that the latest moves signal that the junior Chung is making progress with his plans to restructure the sprawling group. Other non-Koreans have also been appointed to senior management positions, reports say.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

See also: Hyundai R&D chiefs offer resignations

Hyundai Motor Group Chung succession closer

Just Auto Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Auto Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving automotive industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now