COSTA MESA, Calif. -

Hyundai Motor America recently announced its president and chief executive officer John Krafcik would be stepping down as of Dec. 31.

Filling the role in 2014 is David Zuchowski, former executive vice president of sales for the company.

Zuchowski assumed the position Jan. 1.

The new president and CEO joined the company in Feb. 2007 as vice president of sales with responsibility for all sales, sales operations, market representation, field operations and overall dealer relations.

A 33-year veteran of the automotive industry, Zuchowski was previously with Mazda North America, where he served as vice president of sales and field operations.

Zuchowski began his career in 1980 at Ford Motor Company.  

“I am both humbled and excited to lead Hyundai Motor America into the next chapter by continuing to build on John’s great legacy, and focusing on what matters most — building the highest quality, safest and most diverse fleet of models that customers love,” said Zuchowski.

Commenting on the news, Im Tak Uk, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Hyundai Motor Co., said, “Dave has consistently distinguished himself as a results-oriented and motivational leader in our industry. During his time at Hyundai, Dave has been instrumental in our growth, especially among our dealers.

“He exhibits a rare combination of passion, intelligence, creativity and diligence, and we are confident that he is the right choice to build on John’s momentum and take Hyundai to new and greater heights.”

As the manufacturer welcomed a new leader, execs also reflected on Krafcik’s contributions to the company.

Im Tak Uk said shortly after the announcement was made late last week, “On behalf of Hyundai Motor Co., we sincerely thank John for his visionary leadership and relentless pursuit of customer satisfaction, which has driven Hyundai’s record growth over the past five years.

 “John’s forward-looking perspective, commitment to quality and design, and pursuit of innovative new product offerings have elevated the Hyundai brand and introduced our vehicles to a new generation of satisfied and loyal customers,” he continued.

The company shared that under Krafcik, Hyundai Motor America experienced “dramatic increases in sales volume and market share.”

“It’s been a sincere privilege and honor to lead Hyundai Motor America over the past five years, and I am confident that with Dave’s succession, our brand will continue to expand and thrive for years to come,” said Krafcik. “We have many of the best and brightest employees in the business coupled with a committed and talented dealer network that will continue to pay dividends.”

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