40 Under 40: Daniel Novotny
If there is one employer that stands out in Daniel Novotny’s career background, it might be this one: the CIA.
“For my early career, I am most proud of my years with the Central Intelligence Agency, especially those spent in Iraq alongside our armed forces. It was an important time to serve our country in an interesting period of our history that has given me a deep appreciation of politics and the military,” he said.
“For my remarketing career, I am most proud of the team leadership we have in our Dallas operations. This team has led Hyundai Capital America’s off-lease growth from 10,000 to 250,000 vehicles in four years, and developed the function into a mature, world-class remarketing organization.”
Novotny, 35, is the vice president of remarketing and lease-end services at Hyundai Capital America. Before moving to HCA, he was a consultant in the financial services industry.
“Hyundai had recently re-started our own brand of vehicle service contracts, and the challenge of growing a new business was one that excited me,” Novotny said. “My transition to remarketing has been enjoyable as well, because it is the only part of a captive where you are selling actual cars out there in the market.”
Novotny said the part of the car business he enjoys the most is the people.
“We all work intensely to support loyalty to the brand and continuously improve our operations, but we do so with a positive attitude that makes stepping through the door in the morning an enjoyable experience,” he said. “This goes for my team at Hyundai Capital, my counterparts across our executive team, and our partners in the industry.”
When asked about the people he admires professionally, Novotny pointed to ADESA’s Bob Rauschenberg, who has been in the car business for his entire career.
“He still enjoys it, still has fun, and maintains a dedicated focus to his company and his team,” Novotny said. “It should be the goal of each of us to enjoy what we do and build strong, meaningful relationships in the business.”
Daniel Novotny, 35, is vice president of remarketing and lease end services at Hyundai Capital America.
View entire list of 40 Under 40 honorees.