Kia Canada celebrates 20 years, welcomes new COO

Elias El-Achhab

Kia employees from across Canada gathered at a staff celebration at the corporate head office in Mississauga to celebrate Kia Canada’s 20^th year and welcome the new chief operating officer, Elias El-Achhab.

Kia Canada went from 43 dealerships in 1999 to 193 dealerships today. The company acknowledged the part its employees played in the rapid growth of the brand in Canada.

“As we look to build on a successful first twenty years in Canada, we are very excited to welcome Elias to the team,” said Kyle Lee, president and CEO. “His experience and leadership will play a critical role in bringing some very exciting plans to the Canadian market in both the short and long term.”

El-Achhab brings 17 years of experience in the automotive industry, most recently as vice president of S. Dilawri Auto Group in Ottawa, where he was responsible for the business operations for 10 dealerships, two of which were the Kia brand.

“I’m thrilled to be joining Kia at such an exciting time for the brand,” said El-Achhab.  “Having the opportunity to celebrate the collective achievement of this team and meet such a great group of people was the perfect way to start my journey at Kia and I cannot wait to be part of the future that has limitless opportunity for the brand both globally and here in Canada.”

Kia.ca