2026 Shortlisted nominee
Chief Executive of the Year Award
Paul is a highly respected and visionary automotive leader whose 38 year career has been defined by transformation, growth and a genuine commitment to people. After beginning his career with Ford of Britain, he progressed through senior roles at Toyota GB before joining Kia UK as Managing Director in 2007. He later led Kia Europe as Chief Operating Officer before returning to the UK in 2012 as the first non-Korean President and CEO of an international Kia subsidiary. Under his leadership, Kia UK has evolved into one of the UK’s leading automotive brands, embracing zero-emission motoring, expanding into commercial vehicles and achieving record sales and industry recognition. A passionate advocate for inclusion and development, Paul champions a ‘people before profit’ philosophy, driving Kia’s Inclusion Plan and creating a culture where colleagues feel valued, supported and empowered. His people-focused leadership and sustained commercial success make him a standout Chief Executive.
