BMW appoints NZ boss
BMW Group New Zealand has announced the appointment of Francois Roca as its new managing director, effective July 1.
Roca, pictured, brings more than 21 years of international automotive experience to the role after holding senior positions in marketing, sales and dealer development across Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa.
He is currently based in Japan, where he serves as executive director for BMW Group and oversees dealer development and annual sales.
“Francois has a proven track record of building strong dealer relationships and delivering consistent sales growth,” says Jean-Philippe Parain, senior vice-president, sales regions Asia Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa.
“His global perspective and leadership experience will be a valuable asset to our New Zealand operations.”
Roca will replace Adam Shaver at BMW Group NZ after the latter spent just over three years as managing director.
Shaver is set to take on a role at BMW Group headquarters in Munich, Germany, after being appointed head of global used car strategy and steering.
He has been with the group for more than two decades, holding senior sales and marketing positions across BMW and Mini in Munich and Canada.
A statement from BMW Group says that since taking the reins in New Zealand, Shaver has introduced a new business structure and operating model focused on collaboration, digitalisation and efficiency.
“Under his leadership, the New Zealand team has delivered strong results in challenging market conditions and significantly strengthened the relationships with the national retail network of 10 dealers,” it adds.
“During his tenure, BMW’s overall market share in New Zealand increased from 1.4 per cent in 2022 to 2.2 per cent as of April 2025.”
Its premium segments’ share also rose from 15.7 per cent to 19.6 per cent. In 2024, BMW reclaimed the number one position in the premium segment for the first time in a decade – a trend that has continued into 2025, with quarter one registrations increasing 18.6 per cent.
“We thank Adam for his outstanding leadership and the exceptional results he has achieved alongside the local team and our dealer network,” adds Parain.
“We look forward to welcoming him back to the company’s head office in Munich and look forward to his continued contribution in his new global role.”
Roca has expressed his enthusiasm for his new post in New Zealand.
“I am honoured to join the BMW Group New Zealand team and look forward to building on the strong foundation that Adam and the team have established,” he explains.
“I’m excited to learn more about the local market and work closely with our retail partners across the country.”
