Meet Suzuki NZ’s new CEO
Suzuki New Zealand says with a combined experience of close to 60 years, its new chief executive officer and executive team means it is in a good place to continue the brand’s success.
Following the retirement of CEO Tom Peck, the torch has passed onto Gary Collins, the company’s long-standing general manager of automobile.
Together with Simon Meade, executive general manager of motorcycle, marine and after-sales, and Liz Maddox-Strong, general manager of finance, admin and IT, the executive team’s “expertise and knowledge will be instrumental in guiding Suzuki forward”.
The change in management structure places a greater emphasis on the executive team with all members expanding their responsibilities. In addition to taking on the top job, Collins continues as executive general manager of automobile.
“It’s an honour to be part of such an amazing team at Suzuki,” says Collins. “I am excited to take on the role, and to continue to be part of a brand that everyday Kiwis know and love.
“With the full support of the executive team, we look forward to building on the foundation laid by Tom. Thanks to the talented people at head office and our supportive dealerships nationwide, we’re in a good position to continue to grow and achieve our goals together.”
Collins’ appointment as CEO isn’t only a natural progression. It will also ensure a seamless transition for the Japanese-owned company that has been part of the New Zealand scene for the past 40 years, and even further back with the Whanganui-based Coleman family from the early 1960s.
“We welcome Collins-san into his new role with complete confidence in his ability to continue Suzuki’s tradition of excellence and growth while delivering unparalleled service to their customers and support to dealerships,” says Tomoyuki Shimazaki, division manager, Oceania and Latin America Automobile at Suzuki Motor Corporation.
Grateful for Suzuki’s mentorship and support over the years, Collins says the level of quality and professionalism that customers expect from the brand will remain unchanged.
He has been with Suzuki NZ since completing a bachelor of business studies in 1993. Initially joining the company as a marketing assistant, his leadership qualities and understanding of the industry have seen him rise to top management. For the past decade, he has been general manager for automobile.
Collins says: “My career in the motor industry has spanned three decades. I feel extremely fortunate to have been involved with Suzuki, and to be part of such an exciting and dynamic line of work.
“I’m pleased to be working alongside Simon and Liz in the executive team who. They have such extensive industry knowledge, and will be instrumental in our company strategic plans and adapting our business to an ever-changing market environment.”
