Michael J. O’Brien, a 30-year industry veteran, rejoined Hyundai in June 2010 as vice president of corporate and product planning. Mike is responsible for guiding strategic development of Hyundai’s entire model lineup – including cars and crossovers – identifying opportunities to extend into new segments, and tailoring Hyundai vehicles for the U.S. market.

From 1987-1996, Mike held key roles with Hyundai’s product planning team and parts and accessories division. In nearly a decade with Hyundai, he initiated and maintained product refinement and quality initiatives, led programs to improve dealer profitability and customer loyalty, and launched and managed Hyundai’s first-ever motorsports program in ProRally among other accomplishments.

Most recently, Mike spent 14 years with Toyota Motor Sales, USA. As a corporate manager within the corporate planning division, Mike oversaw Toyota’s U.S. product strategy including van, truck and SUV lines as well as powertrain, advanced technology vehicles and regulatory planning. He supervised proposal creation and management including price, volume and business planning, vehicle configuration, spec strategy and grade strategy. His responsibilities extended into Mexico, where he was responsible for all Toyota nameplates and brands with a focus on market planning.

Mike’s past experience includes key marketing, product planning and field operations positions with Nissan Motor Corporation and Ford Motor Company.

Mike earned his Bachelor of Science degree in marketing and business administration from the University of Missouri, Columbia. He is an avid recreational pilot, currently flying a restored French fighter jet in various exhibitions on the West Coast. O’Brien has two children, Evan and Emily.