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February 06, 2026,SEOUL– Hyundai Motor Company has appointed Don Romano as President and CEO of its Asia Pacific Regional Headquarters.
Romano will continue to serve as President and CEO of Hyundai Australia, where he oversees both the Hyundai and Genesis brands. In his expanded regional role, he will split his time between Sydney and Jakarta, leading Hyundai’s operations and growth strategy across the Asia Pacific region.
A 40-year veteran of the automotive industry, Don joined HMCA in March 2025. Prior to his move to Australia, he was President and CEO of Hyundai Auto Canada for 10 years, during which time the brand achieved record sales and profit growth.
Romano was recognised several times by Automotive News as an Automotive All Star. In addition, he was the recipient of Canadian Black Book’s Industry Icon Award and the Women’s Executive Network for his contribution to diversity and equality in the workplace.
His first year of stewardship in Australia was highly successful. Hyundai sales grew 7.7% (YoY) and Genesis 14.4% (YoY). Mr. Romano also championed Genesis’ retail transformation, opening two new Showcases in Sydney, including the brand’s first Agency partnership with CKD Automotive.
Asia Pacific is a key region for Hyundai Motor, spanning 32 countries, including Malaysia, Australia, the Philippines and Thailand, with manufacturing plants in Indonesia, Vietnam and Singapore.
“As I take on this new responsibility in Asia Pacific, I am filled with both purpose and optimism,” said Romano.
“This region is dynamic, diverse, and full of untapped potential. Together with the teams in every Asia Pacific market, we will embrace and foster innovation, collaboration, people development, and a global mindset.
“It is an honour to be appointed to the role, and I look forward to leading Hyundai Motor Asia Pacific to a strong and sustainable future.”
