John Krafcik, president and chief executive officer of Hyundai Motor America, is a 25-year veteran of the automotive industry. He is responsible for implementation of strategic direction and management of the company’s operations in the United States.

Krafcik joined Hyundai in 2004 as vice president of Product Development and Strategic Planning after a long tenure at Ford Motor Company. Under his leadership, Hyundai dramatically reshaped its entire model lineup in an aggressive new product initiative known as the “24/7 Campaign.” From 2004 to 2006, Hyundai introduced seven all-new or completely redesigned models into the U.S. market in a 24-month period.

As an encore, Krafcik led the U.S. development of Hyundai’s first-ever luxury sedan, the 2009 Genesis. The vehicle became Hyundai’s first North American Car of the Year recipient, an honor determined by 50 independent automotive journalists.

Under challenging market conditions in 2009 in his new role as president and chief executive officer, Krafcik led Hyundai to a 40% increase in market share on the strength of growing quality accolades, strong products, industry-leading fuel economy, and the innovative Hyundai Assurance job-loss protection program. Hyundai Assurance started a trend of consumer protection programs with nearly 100 replicas established by companies in a wide range of industries.

Krafcik and his team at Hyundai are now focused on another ambitious new product campaign themed “24/7 Version 2.0.” Hyundai is again shaking up its lineup with new and redesigned models to expand its appeal to American consumers. This effort is highlighted by Hyundai’s volume leaders, the 2011 Sonata and the upcoming all-new Elantra, along with the all-new flagship sedan, Equus.

Krafcik holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University and a Master of Science degree in Management from the MIT Sloan School of Management. Krafcik began his career in the auto industry at the GM/Toyota joint-venture NUMMI.

Krafcik lives in Southern California with his wife and two children.