VIA chairman unveiled

The chief executive of Autohub NZ has been formally elected as chairman of the Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA).

Frank Willett had taken on the role on an interim basis when Chris Stephenson stepped down from the position in May.

The board held its first meeting on July 28 when Willett was “nominated unopposed and will remain chairman for the next term”.

A statement from VIA adds: “The board welcomes new members Greg Hedgepeth and Hayden Johnston as they replace outgoing members Matt Battle and Ken Quigley.”

Stephenson, chief executive of Enterprise Cars, remains seconded to the board as the search continues for a new chief executive to replace David Vinsen, who has retired.

“The board remains committed to ensuring a chief executive is appointed to spearhead the organisation as this is a unique role,” Frank Willett told Autofile Online.

“We have processes in place, we’re looking at candidates and expect someone to be appointed very shortly.”