Randy Parker Takes the Helm at Hyundai and Genesis Motor North America in 2025
Hyundai Motor Company has announced the appointment of Randy Parker as the Chief Executive Officer of Hyundai and Genesis Motor North America, a significant move set to take effect on January 1, 2025. Parker succeeds José Muñoz, who has been promoted to the global role of president and CEO of the Hyundai Motor Company. As the new CEO, Parker will oversee Hyundai's operations across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, as well as manage Genesis in the U.S. and Canada, including the company's manufacturing facilities in Alabama and Georgia.
Randy Parker, known for his dynamic leadership style, has been with Hyundai for several years, having joined in 2019 as vice president of national sales. He climbed the ranks swiftly, achieving the position of Senior Vice President by February 2021. In August 2022, Parker made history by becoming the first African American CEO of a major OEM in a regional market when he took the helm at Hyundai Motor America. Under his strong guidance, the company has witnessed exceptional sales growth, marking three consecutive years of record retail sales.
Upon his appointment, Parker expressed his enthusiasm for leading Honda and Genesis in North America, stating his honor in continuing the trajectory of growth established under Muñoz. "North America is a key market for Hyundai, and we understand the importance of adapting to changing consumer tastes and market dynamics," he articulated. His vision emphasizes the commitment to delivering outstanding products and enhancing customer experiences, indicating a proactive approach to navigating the automotive landscape.
Parker's impressive background before Hyundai includes a significant tenure at INFINITI North America, where he was the vice president overseeing brand performance across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. His experience spans over thirty years in the automotive industry, with pivotal roles at automotive giants like General Motors, Nissan, and Infiniti. Notably, at Nissan, Parker played a critical role in the Global Light Commercial Vehicle sales and marketing sector, making impactful contributions while based in Yokohama, Japan, and also managing regional operations in the western U.S.
Educationally, Parker holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas Christian University and is equipped with Executive Management training from prestigious institutions such as Harvard and Penn State. His leadership prowess hasn't gone unnoticed, as he has been recognized on Automotive News' All-Star list, and acknowledged by the Automotive Hall of Fame in 2022 as one of the critical influencers in the industry. Additionally, the recognition as an Automotive News Champion of Diversity in 2024 highlights his commitment to fostering inclusivity within the automotive sector.
The establishment of Hyundai Motor North America (HMNA) was a strategic move in 2018 to provide operational oversight for the company's North American endeavors, which include Hyundai Motor America, Hyundai Auto Canada, Hyundai Motor Mexico, Genesis Motor America, and Genesis Motors Canada. With an operational network that spans cutting-edge research and development facilities and assembly plants, HMNA has achieved notable milestones, including the sale of 1.3 million vehicles in 2023. The company is dedicated to pursuing sustainable growth aligned with Hyundai’s global vision of advancing humanity through technological innovation and vehicle integration.
As Parker steps into his new role, the automotive industry watches closely, eager to see how his leadership will further shape Hyundai's future in one of its most vital markets. The continued momentum in sales growth under his direction will be crucial in maintaining Hyundai's competitive edge in the North American auto market.