Styling is an emotional prompt to buy as cars become more alike, and offer the same comfort, safety, and convenience accoutrements.
Kia Motors has named Pierre Leclercq as its new Head of Styling. Based at Kia’s design headquarters in Namyang, Korea, Leclercq’s appointment will allegedly accelerate the establishment of a consistent design across and expanding Kia model range. As the newly-established Head of Styling, Belgian-born Pierre Leclercq is responsible for developing Kia’s long-term design strategy, and lead design innovation for exteriors, interiors, materials and textiles.
He will also work to strengthen design co-operation between Kia’s global design network, which is made up of design studios in the USA, Europe and China, as well as Korea.
Leclercq takes up his new role at the end of September, working with – it’s unknown how well – Peter Schreyer, President and Chief Design Officer of Hyundai Motor Group, and Seon Ho Youn, Head of Kia Design Center in Korea.
“Pierre Leclercq has a unique insight into global vehicle design, and brings with him the necessary experience and expertise to help reinforce Kia’s design identity in the coming years.” Mr. Schreyer said.
Mr. Leclercq graduated in 1998 from the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California in the USA with a degree in Transportation Design. He began his career in Italy at Zagato followed by Ford’s Ghia studio, then went on to work for BMW in California and Munich as an exterior designer before becoming the head of design for the M performance sub-brand. Mr. Leclercq joins Kia from his latest position as Head of Design for the Chinese company Great Wall Motors. No word on why he left working in the world’s largest car market.
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“I have watched the development of the Kia brand closely, and I couldn’t be more excited to become a part of this innovative design team.” Mr. Leclercq said.
Biography – Mr. Pierre Leclercq
- 2013 – 2017 Head of Design at Great Wall Motors Global
- 2011 – 2013 Brand Design Chief, BMW M
- 2004 – 2010 Senior Exterior Designer, BMW Munich
- 2000 – 2003 Exterior Designer, BMW Los Angeles
- 1999 – 2000 Ford Advanced (Ghia studio), Turin Italy
