New U.S. Chief for Kia

Just weeks after bankrupt Kia Motors Corp. was taken over by rival Hyundai Motor Co., a Hyundai official has been named chief executive of Irvine-based Kia Motors America, the North American import and distribution arm of the Seoul-based auto maker.

B.M. Ahn becomes president and CEO of Kia Motors America, succeeding W.K. Kim, who had held the positions for nearly two years. Ahn was with Hyundai Precision & Industry Co., heading the export business division for the European and Russian markets.

Kia said the change is the first of several planned as Hyundai management personnel are integrated into Kia’s corporate structure. Kim will remain at Kia Motors America as executive vice president.