Hyundai Canada names execs to lead connected digital experience division

Hyundai Auto Canada is reinforcing its focus on digital experiences, rounding out a recently created division with a pair of senior leadership appointments..

Former director of product and corporate strategy Steve Flamand will steer the fledgling connected digital experience division as executive director of product, corporate, IT and digital strategy, the company said Aug. 26.

To support Flamand in his expanded role, the company has appointed Jeff Hewitt as director of connected and digital experience — a bump up from his previous role as national manager within the same division.

“Their appointments represent Hyundai Canada’s steadfast commitment to constantly enhancing the overall experience for both customers and dealers,” company CEO Don Romano said in a release.

Hyundai, which has more than 225 dealerships across Canada, said the new division aims to create “industry-leading levels of transparency and communication between customers and dealers.”

Along with overseeing the new digital unit, Flamand will head Hyundai Canada’s information technology department as part of his new, wide-ranging role. He will also continue to take ownership over product planning and overall corporate strategy at the company.

Flamand joined Hyundai in February 2018 after 25 years with General Motors, during which he held progressively more senior positions in postings in North America, Asia and Europe.

Hewitt, meantime, has held postings of “escalating responsibility” within Hyundai Canada since joining the company in 2001. Before becoming national manager of the digital experience unit, Hewitt led Hyundai Canada’s customer experience team. He has also been posted to the company’s sales, parts and service and retail advertising departments.

Both new appointments take effect Sept. 1.