The future of the European automotive industry looks bright because of the strength of the young executives who are making huge strides forward. The 2013 Rising Stars will be honored at the Four Seasons George V hotel in Paris on 12th June .

“These 18 individuals show the incredible level of talent that exists in the automotive industry. The winners distinguished themselves and earned the Rising Star award because they have achieved so much already,” Automotive News Europe Editor Luca Ciferri said.

Selected from more than 150 nominations, the 2013 Rising Stars are:

• Eduardo Munoz – Jaguar Land Rover – Aftersales & Service
• Jay Ward – Ford of Europe – Communications
• Marc Girard – BMW – Design
• Nick Collins – Ford of Europe – Engineering
• Paul Fratter – Ford of Europe – Finance
• Marcus Cox – Opel/Vauxhall – Finance
• Filiz Albrecht – Mann + Hummel – Human Resources
• Daniel Mueller – Kia Motors Europe – Information Technology
• David Cox – Motortrak – General Management
• John Stech – Volvo Cars Russia – General Management
• Xavier Dupont – Valeo – General Management
• Peter Domeney – Jaguar Land Rover – Manufacturing
• Panayiotis Pitsikos – Autostop – Manufacturing
• Matthias Weitzel – Magna Exteriors & Interiors – Marketing
• Darren Cox – Nissan – Marketing
• Kevin Williams – Dana – Purchasing
• Adrian Porter – Automotive Resources International – Sales
• Ian Hucker – Opel/Vauxhall – Sales

A Rising Star is an automotive executive with a pan-European profile who has driven change, fostered innovation and made courageous decisions. To qualify, candidates should have a minimum of 10 years of work experience, have multiple language skills and be 45 years or younger. Nominations are accepted from carmakers, suppliers, automotive service providers and retail/aftersales businesses.

Profiles of each Rising Star award winner and information on the awards gala dinner in Paris are available by clicking here.