Russell Wager oversees all of Kia America’s marketing communications including the marketing operations, media, digital, sponsorships and public relations areas.  He joined Kia in July 2019.

Russell brings more than 25 years of automotive experience to Kia.  Previously, he served as the Vice President of marketing for Mazda North America and has led major automotive accounts at several of the top advertising and marketing agencies both globally and in the U.S., including David&Goliath, where he led the Kia business for several years.

Accolades include: MediaPost 2023 Automotive Marketer of the Year, 2022 Adweek Brand Genius Award, achieved the Forbes list of World’s Most Influential CMOs multiple time and has been recognized for several influential programs and campaigns.

Through his passion for giving, Russell has also led Kia’s Accelerate the Good CSR programs with support of St. Jude, resulting in Kia being named St. Jude’s Corporate Partner of the Year for 2023.

Russell resides in Irvine, California, with his wife and two dogs, Australian Blue Heelers named Bronson and McQueen.