SK Innovation appoints new CEOs for 2025

SK Innovation has announced the appointment of new chief executive officers (CEOs) for three of its key subsidiaries—SK Energy, SK Geo Centric, and SK IE Technology—in a move aimed at strengthening operational competitiveness and advancing technological growth. 

The newly appointed CEOs, all of whom have engineering backgrounds, are expected to accelerate the group’s Operation Improvement (O/I) initiatives, focusing on process optimisation and business growth. The leadership changes will take effect at the annual shareholders’ meeting in March 2025.

New CEO appointments  

Kim Jong-hwa – CEO, SK Energy  

Kim, currently the head of Ulsan Complex (CLX), is known as a refining expert with extensive experience across the refining and chemical sectors. Since joining the company in 1994, Kim has held critical positions in field management, including roles in safety and environment management. His new role will see him stabilise operations amidst oil price volatility and enhance product competitiveness.

Choi Ahn-seop – CEO, SK Geo Centric  

Choi, formerly head of the Materials Division at SK Geo Centric, began his career as an R&D researcher. His expertise in strategy and product innovation has been integral to the company’s focus on high-value products. As CEO, Choi is expected to drive future growth and enhance operational efficiency through product innovation.

Lee Sang-min – CEO, SK IE Technology  

Lee, an R&D specialist with extensive experience in green growth and electric vehicle technologies, has been instrumental in developing HVAC systems and e-fluids for EVs. His focus as the new CEO will be on expanding sustainable business solutions and capitalising on growth opportunities in the EV market.

Leadership shift towards youth and innovation  

The appointments reflect SK Innovation’s strategy of introducing younger leadership to prepare the company for future challenges. Notably, Choi Ahn-seop (born 1972) and Lee Sang-min (born 1975) represent the next generation of leadership within the group. 

SK Geo Centric has also restructured its organisation, promoting three new executives to strengthen decision-making and execution power within the business.

SK Innovation will continue its transformation by merging with SK E&S in November 2024, forming a Total Energy & Solution Company. This reorganisation underscores the group’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and technological innovation.