Kia Australia has announced a major leadership transition, with long-serving CEO Damien Meredith stepping into an advisory role after 12 years at the helm. Current COO Dennis Piccoli will officially assume the CEO position on June 1, 2026.
The announcement marks the end of a significant era for Kia Australia, during which the brand experienced rapid growth, stronger dealer relations, and a major transformation in brand identity and market presence.
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Damien Meredith’s impact on Kia Australia
Damien Meredith joined Kia Australia in May 2014 and quickly became one of the most influential automotive executives in the Australian market. One of his earliest and most defining decisions was the introduction of Kia’s seven-year warranty, a move that reshaped customer expectations in Australia’s automotive industry.
Under Meredith’s leadership, Kia Australia’s annual sales climbed from 28,005 units in 2014 to a record 82,105 units in 2025, representing a 193 percent increase over the period.
He also oversaw Kia Australia’s biggest-ever brand transformation in 2021, which included the rollout of the company’s new logo and the global ‘Movement That Inspires’ brand philosophy. The company additionally strengthened its visibility through its long-running partnership with the Australian Open, which became a key pillar of Kia’s marketing strategy in Australia.
Speaking about his transition into the advisory role, Meredith said; “In business and in life, I’ve always said care is the most important word. For me, finding motivated people who care and building a strategy with them has been the most rewarding aspect of my time at Kia.”
He also highlighted the importance of Kia’s dealer network and said he looked forward to supporting the company during the transition period.
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Dennis Piccoli to lead Kia Australia into next phase
Dennis Piccoli moves into the CEO role after serving as Kia Australia’s Head of Sales before recently being promoted to COO. Piccoli brings extensive automotive industry experience, having previously held senior roles with General Motors and Hyundai Motor Company Australia.
Piccoli has worked closely with Meredith for more than a decade across multiple automotive brands, positioning him as a natural successor for the leadership role.
Commenting on the appointment, Piccoli said:
“I’m very privileged to transition into the CEO role here at Kia and look forward to working with the team to enhance the brand, its innovation and forward momentum.”
Kia Australia says Piccoli’s appointment will ensure continuity while helping drive the company’s future strategic priorities, including innovation, brand growth, and customer engagement.
Kia Australia’s future direction
The leadership change comes at an important time for Kia Australia as the automotive industry continues shifting towards electrification, connected technologies, and changing consumer expectations.
With strong sales momentum and an expanding EV and hybrid portfolio, Kia Australia is expected to continue building on the foundations established during Meredith’s tenure while entering a new phase under Dennis Piccoli’s leadership.
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