Irvine automaker Kia Motors America Inc. said it nabbed former Rivian Automotive executive Michael McHale to be director of brand experience.
The position is a new one at Kia and oversees public relations, events, auto shows, strategic partnerships and other outside communications. McHale reports to Kia Motors America Vice President of Marketing Russell Wager.
McHale comes to the automaker from Rivian, also based in Irvine, where he oversaw communications as the electric vehicle brand grew its presence in the U.S.
His time at Rivian is viewed as important by Kia as it seeks to boost the profile of its own incoming electric fleet.
McHale has also worked in corporate communications for Subaru of America, in addition to BMW, Land Rover and MINI.
