Penske appoints new GM in New Zealand

Penske New Zealand is pleased to announce the appointment of Brian Wilson as general manager of the overall Penske New Zealand business, effective immediately.

Having joined the Penske New Zealand business in early 2023 as general manager of operations, Brian’s expanded role oversees all New Zealand branch operations as well as leading the Western Star Trucks, MAN Truck & Bus, and Dennis Eagle truck sales business.

In recent years, having opened brand-new facilities in Christchurch and Tauranga, the Penske New Zealand business is seeing solid success, particularly in energy solutions, rail, marine, on-highway, and parts and service. This will be further boosted as the new MAN truck generation supply into the country ramps up and as the new Western Star X-Series arrives.

“After almost a year of overseeing the New Zealand operations, I am excited to expand my area of responsibility as general manager for Penke New Zealand overall,” said Brian. 

“Our national team of on- and off-highway experts across our branch network are focused on delivering bespoke and innovative solutions to customers.

“From the new MAN truck generation and the pending Western Star X-Series – for which we are already taking orders – to the energy solutions, defence, mining, rail, marine, agricultural, construction, and oil and gas markets, our pipeline is very healthy.”

Hamish Christie-Johnston, managing director of Penske Australia & New Zealand, said that Brian’s strong leadership had positively impacted the New Zealand operations. 

“A seasoned leader, Brian’s stamp on the New Zealand business over the last several months has been noticeable,” said Hamish.

“He has a great understanding of our branch operations locally and the broader business in Australia, enabling him to drive our strategic priorities, ultimately improving the customer experience.

“Brian will also be focused on attracting and developing local staff as we continue to grow the overall Penske business on both sides of the Tasman.

“On behalf of the business, I’d like to thank Brent Warner, previously the New Zealand country manager, for over a decade of service to Penske and wish him well in his new endeavour.”