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Don Romano Of Hyundai Auto Canada Honoured With Canadian Black Book Icon Award For Exceptional Leadership
Don Romano, the president and CEO of Hyundai Auto Canada, has been honoured with the Icon Award by Canadian Black Book. This recognition was given during the TalkAuto conference, marking the first time in five years that the award has been presented. Romano's efforts in promoting diversity and equality in the workplace, along with his leadership in Empowering Auto, were key factors in his selection.
The Canadian Black Book team unanimously chose Romano for this prestigious award. His contributions to transforming Hyundai Canada's corporate culture and introducing a unique Genesis business model to the Canadian market were highlighted. Upon receiving the award, Romano expressed his gratitude: "I feel deeply honoured to receive this award from the Canadian Black Book team." He continued, "However, this award is really a testament to all the hard-working team members at Hyundai who have made our company one of Canada’s best places to work. I am simply fortunate to be surrounded and supported by a great team of exceptional individuals who are dedicated to our business success and ensure we maintain an equal opportunity for all."
The Icon Award acknowledges leaders who demonstrate innovation, resilience, and transformation within the automotive sector. It aims to inspire future generations by recognising those who pave the way forward. The award was presented by Christopher Nabeta, founder of Accelerate Auto and a mentee of Romano. Nabeta praised Romano for mentoring underrepresented groups and supporting initiatives for disadvantaged youth.
Yolanda Biswah, president of Canadian Black Book, commended Don Romano's leadership: "Don leads by example, he is a true ally who has built an outstanding career and is someone we would turn to for guidance and optimism during challenging times." She added that no one deserved this recognition more than him.
Kathy Ward, former CEO of Canadian Black Book, established the Icon Award to honour exceptional leaders in the industry. Although she passed away too soon, her legacy continues through this award. Romano mentioned Ward as an inspiration: "Kathy Ward was a pioneer for diversity in automotive. We lost her too soon, but her legacy remains. Kathy is someone I looked up to and drew inspiration from, so this award carries tremendous meaning," he concluded.
Hyundai Auto Canada was founded in 1983 as Hyundai Motor Company's first subsidiary outside Korea. Based in Markham, Ontario, it offers a range of technology-rich vehicles including cars, SUVs, and electrified models across over 250 dealerships nationwide. Hyundai is also an official partner of both the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) and the National Hockey League (NHL) in Canada.
For seven consecutive years, Hyundai has been recognised as one of Canada's Top 50 Best Workplaces™ by the Great Place to Work® Institute. This accolade reflects its commitment to creating an inclusive work environment where employees thrive.
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