After 13 years in the role, David Aitken is to step down as CEO of the National Road Carriers Association (NRC). The countrywide organisation provides advice and advocacy to road transport companies.

Aitken has shown great leadership during his tenure and leaves the organisation in a strong position both financially and in terms of membership numbers and perceptions.

“When David was appointed in 2008, the organisation was in a shaky financial position, and he worked with the chairman at the time, Paul Chappel, to stabilise the situation and put it onto a firm footing,” said Don Wilson, NRC chairman.

“NRC has grown substantially over the years with members from around the country joining us because they recognise the value of the assistance and representation David and his team provide,” said Wilson.

Aitken said when appointed he was almost immediately embroiled in a protest action with about 2000 trucks driving into Auckland city centre and more into other city centres around the country to protest Transport Minister Annette King’s proposed road user charge increases.

Other highlights of his time at NRC have included dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown last year that required almost round the clock communications with authorities and trucking companies and meeting and working with people from the road freight industry.

“It’s an excellent industry – hard-working people providing an essential service. I am proud of the professionalism the NRC team has shown over the years,” said Aitken.

Aitken said he had decided it was time for new challenges. He will remain in the role until the end of July.