Auto industry veteran Scott McKee will lead the PR team of Kia Motors America (KMA), overseeing all product and corporate communications for the company, media relations, and internal communications. In the past, McKee worked in PR and marketing within the automotive industry, serving brands such as Mercedes-Benz, Aston Martin, Jaguar and Land Rover. In his new position, McKee will report to Michael Sprague, VP of marketing and communications for the company.
“Scott brings a wealth of experience to Kia Motors, and with his history of success in previous public relations, marketing and motorsports roles he will provide invaluable leadership for our talented PR team as the brand continues to grow and mature,” said Michael Sprague in an official press statement. “Consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the Kia brand have risen dramatically, and Scott will play an important role in developing Kia’s future U.S. communications strategies and programming to continue that trend.”
Based on his previous experience with iRacing.com, McKee will oversee the company’s second-year racing program. Before iRacing, McKee served as general manager, retail programs and communications at Land Rover North America.
KIA definitely needs a seasoned PR leading its team, especially after the massive wave of recalls in 2010, when Chung Sung-eun resigned, after the company recalled more than 35,000 vehicles in the United States and more than 104,000 globally.
Kia Motors has an active roster of marketing and public relations companies, through the years, their firms have included on the PR side Porter Novelli PR, Pacific Communications Group, Levick Communications, for sponsorships they use Atlanta-based MoZeus Worldwide.