Tapping ‘diverse’ region’s potential

Hyundai Motor Company has announced the promotion of Don Romano to president of Asia Pacific, a region that covers New Zealand and 31 other countries.

He will also retain his position as chief executive officer and president of Hyundai Australia, overseeing the Hyundai and Genesis brands, and split his time between Sydney and Jakarta.

Romano, pictured, is a 40-year veteran of the automotive industry and joined Hyundai Motor Company Australia in March 2025. 

Before that he was president and CEO of Hyundai Auto Canada for 10 years, during which time the brand achieved record sales and profit growth.

During his first year in Australia, Hyundai’s sales grew 7.7 per cent year-on-year and Genesis’ rose 14.4 per cent. 

Hyundai Motor says Asia Pacific is a key region for the company and the countries it covers including Malaysia, Australia, the Philippines and Thailand. It also has 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,” adds 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 promoted to the role and I look forward to leading Hyundai Motor Asia Pacific to a strong and sustainable future.”