16. John Krafcik
Hyundai USA Acting president, CEO
Working hard to adapt Hyundais to the U.S. market
2008 Ranking: 23
Why he's on the rise: South Korea's automotive market is like the American market in that it prefers midsize and larger sedans, rather than hatchbacks. Ride and handling preferences resemble America's from 40 years ago. Krafcik is key to adapting Hyundai's models, increasingly popular worldwide, to North American standards.
Influence on: Hyundai/Kia is the fastest-growing automaker globally, now number five. Krafcik is now Hyundai's top executive in the U.S., and he's a product guy.
Hazard: Hyundai USA had a long line of ex-presidents before him, thanks to unmet sales expectations.
...
>>next page