Kia boss Paul Philpott has been appointed the 84th President of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
The announcement was made at the organisation’s 108th Annual Dinner, with Philpott, president and CEO of Kia UK, set to take office on 1 January 2026. He succeeds Mick Flanagan, vice president at automotive seating manufacturer Adient, who steps down after completing his two-year term.
Philpott brings nearly four decades of automotive experience to the role. After graduating from Loughborough University with a degree in Banking and Finance, he joined Ford of Britain and climbed through multiple leadership positions. He later moved to Toyota GB, becoming a director at just 34.
In 2007 he joined Kia UK as managing director, guiding the brand through a period of rapid and sustained growth.
He later became chief operating officer at Kia Europe in Frankfurt before returning in 2021 to become the first non-Korean President and CEO of any international Kia subsidiary. In that time, he has led the brand’s shift toward zero-emission vehicles and overseen its expansion into the commercial vehicle sector with the Kia PV5 Cargo.
Paul Philpott, president and CEO, Kia UK, said: “It is with great honour and privilege that I accept this appointment, and I would like to thank and congratulate Mick Flanagan for his outstanding support and leadership over the past two years."
"Our industry is one we are all proud to serve, and I believe our greatest strength lies not only in our ambition, but in our ability to adapt and change: we are transitioning toward zero-emission goals, navigating complex legislative measures and welcoming new brands into the UK market. There has never been a more important time to stand together, and I look forward to supporting this with SMMT."
"I am proud to take on this responsibility at such a defining moment for our industry, and I am committed to working with all stakeholders to secure a sustainable and successful future for UK Automotive.”
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “We are delighted to welcome Paul Philpott as SMMT’s 84th President. Paul brings vast experience and a deep understanding of the sector that will be invaluable during a period of significant transformation and uncertainty."
"I would also like to express our gratitude to outgoing president Mick Flanagan for his exceptional service. Mick has been a steadfast advocate for the UK automotive industry and SMMT, and his contribution has strengthened our sector and set a strong foundation for the future.”
