New leader at Hyundai

Hyundai Motor Company Australia (HMCA) has appointed Don Romano as its president and chief executive officer, and as adviser for Hyundai Motor’s Asia and Pacific region.

A 40-year industry veteran, he has replaced Ted Lee who, after a successful three-year tenure, will remain in a support role as HMCA’s chief executive co-ordinator.

Overseeing the Hyundai and Genesis brands, Romano, pictured, joins the operation after 10 years as president and CEO of Hyundai Auto Canada (HAC) where he oversaw record growth.

HAC is the country’s second-largest import brand and fourth-largest marque with 226 Hyundai dealers and 31 Genesis distributors nationwide. It is also Canada’s largest mainstream seller of EVs.

Romano champions several initiatives with a focus on developing a fair and inclusive corporate culture and strong employee engagement. 

He says: “With 74 competitors – expected to rise to 80 within the next 12 months – Australia is one of the most challenging automotive markets on Earth. I look forward to working with the team to promote our world-beating products and exceed customer expectations.”