The newest entrant to the domestic automobile sector, Kia Motors India (KMI) has today announced two key appointments – Manohar Bhat as its head of marketing and sales, and Yong S Kim as the company’s executive director, effective immediately. They will be part of Kia's core senior management team and will be instrumental in setting up the India operations for marketing and sales.

Manohar Bhat will handle marketing, sales and aftersales service operations, as well as be responsible towards building the Kia brand as a household name in India. Bhat, an automotive industry veteran with over 25 years of experience, has formerly headed various marketing and sales functions with major Indian automakers.

Executive director Yong S Kim will be responsible for overseeing the sales function, mid-to long-term strategic plans of Kia Motors India, and coordination with Kia Motors Corporation's head office in South Korea. He will also coordinate the marketing and sales requirements of KMI at a corporate level, equipping the company to strengthen its position in the Indian market.

Kim has over 30 years of auto experience with various global country positions in KMC. The company states he is well poised to play a vital role in making Kia a success in India, which is set to become the third largest auto market in the world soon.

“The appointments of Manohar Bhat and Yong S Kim to pivotal senior roles at KMI is the next step in forming an experienced top management team who will realise KMI’s vision and the big plans we have for India,” said Kookhyun Shim, MD and CEO, Kia Motors India.