Stocks stepping down from AA

Stella Stocks has announced she will be relinquishing her position at the AA at the end of the year.

As the association’s general manager of motoring services, she says she’s grateful for the fantastic relationships she has developed across the automotive industry.
“I’ve enjoyed my two decades with the AA, and I look forward to seeing the continued growth and development of work already completed in motoring services,” says Stocks, pictured, who is retiring.

“I have also relished my role as a council member and director for ANCAP. Vehicle safety began as simply part of the job, but became a passion when I realised what a significant impact it could have on those involved in an accident.”

Under her leadership, the AA has introduced test stations for warrants and certificates of fitness, as well as the AA Auto Centre Network. Today, the latter encompasses 36 outlets across New Zealand, and provide a one-stop shops for motorists’ vehicle and servicing repair needs.

Stocks has also played a pivotal role in fostering support for ANCAP with her passion for promoting the importance of vehicle safety, and has been a leading light in the AA Driven New Zealand Car of the Year Awards.

The lavish award ceremonies in Auckland have become THE event of the year for the industry. And December 2018’s revision and rebranding of the awards received widespread praise, especially from members of the new-vehicle sector.

Brian Gibbons, chief executive officer of the AA, says: “Stella has had a truly ground-breaking career in the motoring industry after becoming the first fully qualified female automotive engineer with the highest qualifications possible in the UK.

“She has an extensive list of her achievements at the AA in terms of vital services she has been instrumental in developing and overseeing. We would like to acknowledge and thank her for the rich legacy she leaves behind.”