Hyundai Motor Group implemented a comprehensive executive reshuffle on 18th December, signalling an accelerated focus on software-defined vehicles (SDVs) through a significant reorganisation of its research, development, and manufacturing divisions.

The group promoted Manfred Harrer, head of the R&D division, and Jung Jun-cheul, head of the manufacturing division, to the role of president.

Yoon Seung-kyu, head of Kia North America, and Lee Bo-ryong, head of the production division at Hyundai Steel, were also promoted to president, while Seo Gang-hyun transitioned from his position as president and chief executive officer of Hyundai Steel to lead the group's corporate planning office.

In total, Hyundai Motor Group announced promotions for 219 executives, including four presidents, 14 executive vice presidents, 25 senior vice presidents, and 176 vice presidents.

Although the total number represents an 8.4% decrease from last year's 239, the reshuffle clearly reoriented the group's organisational focus towards future vehicles, software, and technological competitiveness.

The personnel changes prioritised renewal over stability, elevating leaders who had contributed to managing global uncertainty and supply-chain risks, while accelerating generational change by promoting younger leaders and enhancing R&D capabilities.

A key highlight was the leadership realignment across the two primary R&D pillars: the R&D division and the Advanced Vehicle Platform (AVP) division. Harrer, who joined the group in 2024 and previously led vehicle development, is expected to expedite the transition to SDVs by strengthening collaboration across software, electrification, and infotainment units.

The AVP chief position, vacated following the resignation of former head Song Chang-hyun earlier this month, remains unfilled. Hyundai Motor Group stated that a successor will be appointed in the near future, while development of SDVs and next-generation infotainment projects continues as scheduled. This provides scope for broader organisational realignment and role adjustments across R&D functions, centred on the R&D and AVP divisions.

Structural changes were also introduced in vehicle manufacturing. The previously independent production organisation was placed under a reinforced manufacturing division overseeing production technologies, aimed at maximising efficiency at production sites. Jung, now president, will oversee end-to-end manufacturing and accelerate the rollout of software-defined factories.

Following the departure of Lee Dong-seok as head of domestic production and chief safety officer, Choi Yeong-il, head of the manufacturing engineering centre, was promoted to executive vice president and appointed head of domestic production and chief safety officer. The change reflects a shift in on-site operations from a management-centric approach to a technology-driven model.

Seo, now leading the group's corporate planning office, is expected to drive business optimisation across affiliates, focusing on strategy, planning, and financial streamlining. Vice Chairman Chang Jae-hoon will continue to coordinate the group's core future businesses, including mobility, hydrogen energy, and robotics.

Lee, newly appointed president and chief executive officer of Hyundai Steel, brings over three decades of experience in the steel industry, combining engineering expertise with extensive operational leadership. He is regarded as well-positioned to enhance the company's future competitiveness through sustained large-scale investment in facilities and technology.

Yoon, now president and head of Kia North America, was recognised for achieving more than 8% year-on-year retail sales growth despite a challenging market environment, reinforcing Kia's global presence. Meanwhile, Hyundai Card CEO Cho Chang-hyun and Hyundai Commercial CEO Jeon Si-woo were both promoted to executive vice president in recognition of their capabilities in financial risk management and operational resilience.

A Hyundai Motor Group official stated that the reshuffle was designed to convert global uncertainty into an opportunity for structural renewal, emphasising that the group will continue organisational restructuring and investment to secure a decisive advantage in SDV competition.