Kia Motors America has announced the appointment of former Kia UK managing director Michael Cole as its chief operating officer and executive vice president.

Cole, who was KIa UK managing director from 2009 to 2012 has worked as the chief operating officer of Kia Motors Europe for the past six years and will now become the central point of contact for all sales, marketing, service and corporate and product planning functions for Kia in the US.

Kia Motors America’s president and chief executive, Sean Yoon, said: “Kia’s sales, market share and brand awareness increased dramatically across Europe under Michael Cole‘s leadership and his wealth of knowledge and experience will serve our U.S. operations well as we continue to sharpen focus on retail sales.”

While at Kia Motors Europe, Cole oversaw 40% sales growth, outpacing the 27% growth in the recovering European market.

He brings over 30 years of industry experience to the role, including corporate and field-based roles with Toyota and retail experience with Ford.

Cole said:  “Working together, our goal is to deliver the sales growth and brand reputation enhancement that our great products and services deserve.

“My experience in Europe and the UK demonstrates what Kia can achieve, and our future success in the U.S. will be driven by a similar focus on our key strengths.”