Dive Brief:
- Hyundai Motor North America has promoted Mark Kato to the role of vice president, dealer network development, effective Oct. 12, the automaker announced in a press release.
- Kato will lead teams responsible for expanding, strengthening and supporting both dealer networks throughout the North America region for both the Hyundai and Genesis brands.
- “Mark has been instrumental in helping Hyundai and Genesis build one of the strongest dealer networks in the industry and developing lasting relationships with our retailers,” said Randy Parker, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor North America, in a statement. “He understands our business from every angle and brings a practical, dealer-focused perspective to everything he does.”
Dive Insight:
Kato most recently served as executive director of dealer development for Hyundai Motor North America. In the former role, he oversaw dealer agreements and performance management, strategy, operations, analytics, business management and branding, per the release. He also led efforts to support dealer growth, improve performance and help its retailers adapt to changing business needs across the Hyundai and Genesis organizations.
Kato brings more than 34 years of automotive industry experience to the new role, according to Hyundai. He joined the automaker in 2011 and has held various leadership roles in retail process improvements, sales satisfaction, market representation and strategy. Hyundai said he helped the company deliver strong business performance across the organization.
“As we continue to grow Hyundai and Genesis, Mark is the right leader to help our dealer partners succeed and keep our networks competitive for years to come,” said Parker.
Hyundai said Kato also has two decades of experience on the OEM side of the automotive business, in roles related to regional dealer operations, performance management and network planning.
Kato’s promotion comes as Hyundai continues to post record-high sales in North America, as soaring fuel costs drive demand for more fuel-efficient vehicles. Earlier this year, Hyundai Motor America posted its best-ever sales in Q2 and in the first half of 2026, with hybrid sales up 71% in Q2 and 67% year-over-year.
The automaker has kept that momentum going, achieving the best Q3 in company history with total sales of 246,896 units, a 3% YoY increase. Hybrid vehicle sales in September were up 39% YoY, and the company is planning to launch more models.
In March, Hyundai Motor Co. announced plans to launch 36 new or enhanced models in North America between 2026 and 2030. The new models will be a mix of ICE, hybrids, EVs and extended‑range electric powertrains to meet what Hyundai said were evolving customer demands across the region. The plans are part of a $26 billion investment commitment by Hyundai in the U.S., its largest global retail market.
