Based in Frankfurt, Germany, Cole takes up the role relinquished by Paul Philpott in July when he returned to the UK as the first non-Korean president of any European Kia subsidiary. He will work alongside European president Brandon Yea, responsible for sale, remarketing and aftersales across the region as well as managing relations with the carmaker’s manufacturing facility in Žilina, Slovakia

Formerly UK sales director at Toyota after a 15-year career with the company, 48-year old Cole has been at Kia in the UK since August 2009 during which time the wholly-owned subsidiary has reached record sales. The company is expected to achieve in excess of 65,000 units this year, reaching 57,736 units as of the end of October.

Cole said: ‘I have enjoyed a remarkable three years with a great team here at Kia in the UK and I am excited by the prospect of working to continue the strengthening of the Kia brand right across Europe.

‘With a European production facility in Žilina, Slovakia, a European design office and European-focused research and development facilities I believe Kia has a great future amongst value-demanding European consumers who also want the very highest quality and distinctive design and appeal.’