Claudia Marquez Recognized as Top Corporate Entrepreneur by Negocios & Ejecutiva

Claudia Marquez Honored as Top Corporate Entrepreneur

In a remarkable recognition of her contributions to the automotive industry and beyond, Claudia Marquez, the chief operating officer of Hyundai Motor America, was awarded the prestigious Top Corporate Entrepreneur Gold Award by Negocios and Ejecutiva magazines. This honor was bestowed during the 2025 Top Entrepreneurs of the USA Awards held at the EB Hotel in Miami, Florida, on October 9, 2025, coinciding with National Hispanic Heritage Month.

This award symbolizes a celebration of Marquez's influential leadership style and her unwavering commitment to fostering inclusivity while driving significant economic growth for Hyundai in the U.S. The event marked the 15th anniversary of the Top Entrepreneurs Awards, a ceremony that aims to spotlight individuals who excel in entrepreneurship while emphasizing community values.

In her acceptance speech, Marquez expressed her heartfelt gratitude, acknowledging the significance of the recognition and how it resonates with her personal and professional journey. "Leading Hyundai in the United States is both an honor and a responsibility. My focus is on three pillars—customer-centric growth, people and culture, and operational excellence—so we can deliver great products and a simple, transparent experience while building a diverse pipeline of leaders across our ecosystem," she stated. Her words reflect Hyundai's commitment to empowering varied voices, particularly within Hispanic communities across the nation.

Marquez brings a wealth of global experience to her role at Hyundai, having previously served in leadership positions at several renowned automotive companies, including BMW, MINI, Jaguar Land Rover, Nissan, Infiniti, and Genesis. Throughout her career, she has championed the importance of data-informed decision-making and collaborative efforts across diverse functions and cultures, proving herself adept in navigating the complexities of the global automotive market.

"Knowledge is a powerful equalizer," Marquez added during her speech. She highlighted the critical role of mentorship and sponsorship in enhancing skills and creating opportunities for aspiring leaders, especially from underrepresented backgrounds. Her advocacy for change and encouragement for leaders to embrace their uniqueness showcases her dedication to nurturing a future generation of business trailblazers.

Eduardo A. Hapke, co-founder and publisher of Negocios Magazine, acknowledged Marquez's exemplary performance and ability to drive impactful results while fostering inclusive leadership within the corporate sector. "Claudia Marquez exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit we seek to honor—combining strategic vision with inclusive leadership to drive results for Hyundai, inspire the next generation of business leaders, and strengthen the role of Hispanic executives in shaping the future of the U.S. economy," he remarked.

The 2025 Top Entrepreneurs of USA Awards not only recognize the accomplishments of individuals but also serve as an inspiration for others in the business world. Marquez's win is a clear indication that the automotive industry is evolving, increasingly valuing diversity, innovation, and community impact.

For Hyundai Motor America, Marquez's leadership is pivotal as the company continues to thrive in a competitive market, offering a technology-rich lineup of vehicles while adhering to its vision for progression and humanity. Hyundai's extensive presence in the U.S., which includes its headquarters in California, manufacturing plant in Alabama, and research facilities, contributes approximately $20.1 billion to the economy and generates around 190,000 jobs.

As one of the leading Hispanic women executives in the U.S., Claudia Marquez's story not only signifies her professional achievements but also underscores the vital role of representation in leadership roles. Her recent accolade stands as a testament to Hyundai's commitment to diversifying leadership and its broader impact on American business culture.