Hyundai Construction Equipment has appointed Ki Young Kong as its new chief operating officer. He will replace S G Rhee, who recently retired from his position as the firm’s COO.
Kong has worked for Hyundai for more than 30 years, enjoying a selection of senior positions at the company. His previous roles include head of global forklift sales and head of production.
In his new role, Hyundai stated that Kong would continue to maximise operational excellence in both the development and production of construction equipment.
Commenting on his latest appointment, Kong said: “Technology, quality, marketing, and human resources (HR) are the key drivers for sustainable growth in our business.
“I am very confident that by focusing on these four pillars, we will deliver great value to our customers, grow our market share, and achieve our goal of becoming a global top-three construction equipment manufacturer, and a top-10 materials handling equipment manufacturer,” he added.
Hyundai said that Kong’s predecessor, Rhee, left with an impressive track record.
A statement issued by the company said: “During the past years, [Rhee] has steered the company through challenging times, amid a recessive economy in global markets like Brazil, Russia, China, and many others.
“He has also initiated a comprehensive programme to reduce operating costs, and to re-align and minimise the number of key suppliers,” the statement continued.
In comments made following his successor’s appointment, Rhee said: “[Kong] and I have managed numerous projects together. This makes me believe that this transition should work out smoothly.”
Hyundai Construction Equipment forms part of South Korea-headquartered construction giant, Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI).
A spokesperson from Hyundai Heavy Industries Europe (HHIE) wished Rhee, who was the firm’s managing director from 2011 to 2014, “a well-deserved retirement”.
