Brad Phillips has been named the new general manager, aftersales and network operations at Keith Andrews, as the commercial vehicle dealer looks to strengthen its North Island network.

The appointment follows rapid expansion and a subsequent surge in customer demand.

“We’re excited to have Brad joining Keith Andrews,” said managing director Aaron Smith. “This is a critical executive appointment that will help Keith Andrews build on our growth through 2023 and beyond,” he said.

“Brad brings a wealth of knowledge to the role, having worked across disciplines including technical support, training, fleet engineering and reliability.”

Phillips joins the Keith Andrews team from his role as fleet engineering and reliability manager at Genesis Energy, where, among other responsibilities, he oversaw the integration of Fuso eCanter electric trucks into the company’s LPG delivery fleet.

Having qualified as a heavy diesel mechanic, Phillips’ CV includes stints as national technical advisor working across Volvo Truck and Bus, Mack and Renault Trucks; project and fleet reliability for Fonterra; as well as establishing his own asset management consultancy. He also spent six months as a mechanic at Scott Base in Antarctica.

“I’ve been impressed with the company’s growth and leadership, so when the opportunity arose to join Keith Andrews, I couldn’t say no,” said Phillips.

“I started my career in trucking as a mechanic and I’m excited to be back in the aftersales environment delivering solutions for our customers.”