Simon Rutherford is the new CEO for Auto Distributors NZ

Armstrong Motor Group has announced the appointment of Simon Rutherford as chief executive of Auto Distributors New Zealand (ADNZ). ADNZ is the import and distribution arm of the wider Armstrong’s Group.

Rutherford, who is a former managing director of Ford New Zealand, brings extensive international and local experience to the new role.

Armstrong’s Group chief executive, Troy Kennedy, welcomed the appointment.

He told AutoTalk, “We are delighted to have someone of Simon’s calibre join the group at this critical time.

“Simon is a hugely experienced automotive executive, bringing significant global and local knowledge where he has proven strengths in distribution, retail, operations, strategy, sales, marketing and customer experience,” Kennedy said.

Rutherford was also the president of the Motor Industry Association from 2022 to 2024. 

In his new ADNZ role, he will have oversight of all ADNZ brands. That includes the development and growth of the Leapmotor and smart brands where the group sees significant growth opportunities.

“Simon will help take our distributor division, ADNZ, into its next exciting phase of growth,” Kennedy added.

Rutherford shared his enthusiasm for the opportunity.

“I’m excited to be given the opportunity to lead the ADNZ team at a time of considerable transition, disruption and opportunity in the motor industry,” he said.

“I intend to build strong, collaborative and enduring relationships with all my colleagues and our OEM partners, dealers and suppliers.”

ADNZ is the official importer and distributor of Peugeot, Citroën, Opel, Leapmotor and, most recently, smart vehicles in New Zealand.

Rutherford’s international experience includes senior automotive roles across the UK, China, Thailand and the US before relocating to New Zealand in 2016 to lead Ford NZ.

Away from the industry, Rutherford is married with two sons and enjoys travel, running and sports. A devoted Nottingham Forest fan, he has followed the club’s recent resurgence — and the contributions of Kiwi striker Chris Wood