Rob Woods has been appointed as the new general manager for Motor Truck Distributors (MTD). Woods will start the role on Monday 8 August 2022.

“Rob’s heavy transport expertise and leadership credentials quickly put him at the front of a strong field of internal and external candidates,” said Michael Doeg, general manager, retail sales at Sime Darby Motors NZ. “We’re delighted to welcome him as the new general manager for MTD.”

Rob began his career with Imperial, one of South Africa’s largest automotive groups, currently responsible for one in three of all car rental transactions, a 40% of market in passenger vehicles, and around 7500 heavy trucks. He was appointed dealer principal for Mitsubishi Cars in his mid-20s, then became Mitsubishi brand manager before moving into heavy transport. By the time he emigrated to New Zealand in 2017, Rob had held franchise director roles at both Freightliner and Hino and gained almost 20 years’ experience in the industry.

Once in New Zealand, Woods worked with Iveco and Isuzu before joining MTD’s parent company, Sime Darby Motors NZ in mid-2021.

“I’m excited and proud to be working with two premium, top-quality brands like Mack trucks and Volvo truck and bus,” said Woods. “We have a very strong team of people at MTD with great technical credentials and well-established relationships throughout the transport industry. I can’t wait to get started.”