Nexen appoints Kang CEO in addition to prez

SEOUL, South Korea, (Feb. 18, 2016) — Nexen Tire Corp. President Travis Kang has been appointed to the additional post of CEO.

The South Korean tire maker announced the change at its general shareholders' meeting Feb. 17. Mr. Kang is the son of Nexen Tire Chairman Byung-Joong Kang.

The company's decision to “bring new leadership is raising expectations for the company. We expect that President Kang's strong leadership will help us take a fast and dramatic approach in business policies based on long-term plans in order to make quick and bold investment for the company,” Seoul-based Nexen said in a press release.

After graduating with a degree in business administration from Yonsei University and receiving a master's degree from the Business School of Seoul National University, Mr. Kang joined Nexen in March 2001. Since then, the company said he has held various positions including managing director of the business planning office, president of the sales division and president of strategic planning.

Throughout his 15-year career at Nexen, Mr. Kang has worked closely with employees to facilitate sales activities, especially in international and OE tire markets, contributing to the business expansion of the tire company, Nexen said. He also has been leading its various sports marketing activities, including a sponsorship of the Manchester City Football Club — announced in 2015 and undertaken, according to Nexen, to strengthen its global brand power.

Meanwhile, the tire maker said it has been strengthening its global presence with a focus on the European market, noting that in October 2015 it started construction of a new tire manufacturing plant in the Czech Republic that will feature “the most advanced automation systems along with environmentally friendly technologies.” Commercial operation is planned to begin in 2018.