FILE PHOTO: Jose Munoz, Global President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Hyundai Motor Company and the president and CEO of Hyundai Motor North America looks on during the press day preview of the Los Angeles Auto Show in Los Angeles, California, U.S. November 16, 2023. REUTERS/David Swanson/File Photo

Hyundai Motor Group plans to appoint Jose Munoz as chief executive officer, making him the first foreigner to lead the automaker as it seeks to grow outside its home country, the Korea Economic Daily reported.

Hyundai Motor has appointed Jose Munoz, a Spanish native, as its new CEO, marking the first time a non-Korean has held the position. Munoz, credited with Hyundai's electrification efforts and sales growth,

Hyundai Motor Co. on Friday promoted Jose Munoz, the company's global chief operating officer (COO), as its new CEO, appointing a foreign national to the top post for the first time since its foundation more than five decades ago.