Adrian Sandu

Adrian Sandu has served as Secretary General and Member of the Board at the Romanian Association of Automobile Manufacturers (ACAROM) since 2004, bringing more than two decades of expertise in the automotive industry. Prior to joining ACAROM, he honed his skills in customer relations within the Dacia Auto division of Renault, laying a strong foundation in both technical understanding and commercial engagement.

Under his leadership, ACAROM has championed the development and resilience of Romania’s automotive sector. Adrian has been instrumental in coordinating national and cross-border industry cooperation and advising automotive groups on strategic expansion. He leads efforts in stakeholder engagement, supports member companies, and ensures Romanian automotive interests are well-represented in European contexts.

In recent years, ACAROM—guided by Adrian’s steady hand—has overseen impressive growth in both output and fiscal contribution. Romania’s automotive sector now accounts for well over 30% of national exports, employs more than 220,000 people, and generates around 35 billion euros in turnover. The strength of the supplier base has become particularly visible: Romanian components are incorporated into nearly every car produced in Europe, a testament to the country’s manufacturing capabilities and competitiveness.

Looking ahead, Adrian Sandu remains a key architect of the sector’s green transition and digital future. Through advocacy and collaboration, he helps align the industry with European targets for electrification, sustainable mobility, and energy efficiency. His strategic vision continues to empower ACAROM and its members to embrace innovation, strengthen supply resilience, and shape the next generation of the automotive industry in Romania.

At FACTORY 4.0, Adrian Sandu will join Panel 5, “Smart Supply Chains & Critical Materials,” where he will share insights into building more resilient and efficient automotive supply networks, strengthening supplier collaboration, managing critical materials and adapting to the challenges shaping modern manufacturing.