Hyundai Motor Europe has announced the appointment of Thomas A. Schmid (pictured) as its new chief operating officer.

Since 2013, Schmid has been leading the company’s sales division in the role of vice president sales and fleet. Now promoted to COO, is responsible for setting business direction and overseeing Hyundai’s pan-European sales, marketing and customer service operations, and will report to president of Hyundai Motor Europe Mr Byung Kwon Rhim.

Rhim said: “Thomas has made a valuable contribution to the recent success of Hyundai in Europe. He now brings his broad industry experience to his new COO role, and I’m sure he will drive further positive developments in our sales, marketing and customer service operations, to deliver our medium- and long-term goals to the benefit of our customers and business partners.”

Schmid’s previous experience includes various senior management roles in the European automotive industry, covering multiple brands and disciplines. He graduated from the University of Vienna as Master of Business Administration, Master of Law and Economics, and Master of Laws, as well as completing further professional and business qualifications in the USA.