Hyundai Motor Company has announced the appointment of Jose Munoz as its new CEO, effective January 1, marking a significant leadership shift as he becomes the first non-Korean to hold the position. Munoz, who is currently Hyundai's global COO and head of North American operations, brings extensive experience from his tenure at Nissan and has been instrumental in Hyundai's electrification initiatives and sales growth. The appointment is part of a strategic move to navigate global business uncertainties and is accompanied by other leadership changes, including the promotion of current CEO Jaehoon Chang to vice chair of Hyundai's automotive division. This reshuffle coincides with the South Korean conglomerate's efforts to bolster its global presence amid the anticipated policy shifts under President-elect Donald Trump, such as the potential elimination of the EV tax credit. Munoz's appointment is seen as enhancing Hyundai's global management and brand stature, reflecting a broader trend of internationalizing leadership within South Korean conglomerates.