Is Tarun Garg the First Indian to Lead Hyundai Motor India as MD and CEO?

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Is Tarun Garg the First Indian to Lead Hyundai Motor India as MD and CEO?

Synopsis

In a groundbreaking move, Tarun Garg has been appointed as the first Indian MD and CEO of Hyundai Motor India Limited, marking a significant milestone in the company’s history. With over three decades of experience, Garg aims to steer HMIL towards sustainable growth amidst India's evolving automotive landscape.

Key Takeaways

  • Tarun Garg is the first Indian MD and CEO of Hyundai Motor India.
  • This appointment highlights India's strategic importance in the global automotive industry.
  • Garg aims to focus on sustainable growth and technological innovation.
  • His extensive experience includes a successful tenure at Maruti Suzuki.
  • The leadership change reflects a commitment to 'Make in India' and global export positioning.

New Delhi, Jan 1 (NationPress) Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) announced on Thursday that Tarun Garg has officially assumed the role of the first Indian to serve as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of HMIL.

According to an exchange filing, this achievement signifies the inaugural instance where an Indian national has helmed HMIL since its establishment 29 years ago—highlighting Hyundai Motor Group’s trust in India's leadership and the country’s increasing strategic significance within the global automotive sector.

With over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, Garg is well-equipped to guide HMIL through its next phase of growth in India. He takes over from Unsoo Kim, who is transitioning to a strategic position at Hyundai Motor Company (HMC) in South Korea.

“The automotive sector in India is at a thrilling juncture, fueled by innovation, sustainability, and shifting consumer expectations. It is an immense privilege to lead Hyundai Motor India during this pivotal phase of our nearly three-decade journey,” stated Garg.

“My aim is to build upon our solid foundation while propelling HMIL’s transition towards sustainable growth, technological excellence, and unparalleled customer satisfaction,” he elaborated, further emphasizing their commitment to ‘Make in India’ and positioning HMIL as a global export hub.

Before joining HMIL, Garg had a successful tenure at Maruti Suzuki India Limited, where he rose through various crucial positions to become the Executive Director of Marketing, Logistics, Parts, and Accessories.

This leadership change reaffirms Hyundai Motor Group’s belief in India’s growth narrative and its strategic relevance, paving the way for a new era of innovation, resilience, and advancement.

Previously, Jose Munoz, President and CEO of HMC, remarked that Garg’s selection as the first Indian to lead HMIL is “a significant milestone in our nearly three-decade legacy.”

“During his tenure as COO, HMIL experienced record sales for three consecutive years, achieved record profits, and completed India’s largest IPO in 2024,” he noted.

Point of View

Tarun Garg's leadership marks a transformational phase for Hyundai Motor India, reflecting the growing influence of Indian executives in global corporations. His extensive background promises to advance innovation within the automotive sector, aligning with the government's 'Make in India' initiative, thus reinforcing the country's strategic importance in the global market.
NationPress
08/01/2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Tarun Garg?
Tarun Garg is the newly appointed Managing Director and CEO of Hyundai Motor India Limited, making history as the first Indian to lead the company.
What is significant about Garg's appointment?
Garg's appointment is significant as it marks the first time an Indian national has held the leadership position at Hyundai Motor India since its inception 29 years ago.
What are Garg's goals as CEO?
As CEO, Garg aims to focus on sustainable growth, technological leadership, and enhancing customer satisfaction while reinforcing the commitment to ‘Make in India’.
What prior experience does Garg have?
Before leading HMIL, Garg worked at Maruti Suzuki India Limited, where he advanced through key roles to become Executive Director of Marketing, Logistics, Parts, and Accessories.
How does Hyundai Motor Group view India's role in the automotive sector?
Hyundai Motor Group views India's role as increasingly strategic, underscoring its confidence in the nation's growth and leadership potential.
Nation Press