MMNZ bolsters leadership team with internal promotions

Mitsubishi Motors New Zealand (MMNZ) has announced four key internal appointments. This is part of an ongoing strategy to strengthen its national operations and support dealer performance. 

The new appointments are:

• Tom Wylie – Head of Vehicle Sales & Operations.

• Nathan Thomas – Head of Aftersales.

• Steven Blackmore – Technical Services Manager.

• Elliot Gill – Senior Technical Advisor.

The moves reflect MMNZ’s commitment to recognising and developing talent from within its own ranks. It is an approach the company says fosters deep product knowledge. It also strengthens dealer relationships and preserves its “family” culture.

This internal focus has seen MMNZ consistently promote high-performing team members into leadership roles. When the right skills and experience are already in-house, looking outside doesn’t make sense. It follows the success of similar leadership appointments in 2023, which strengthened sales operations and proved the value of backing internal talent.

MMNZ President & CEO, Warren Brown, said the latest promotions are further proof that the company’s in-house talent pipeline is robust.

“We always look to promote internally when the right people are already here,” said Brown. “It’s a successful approach that builds loyalty, keeps our family culture strong and means our leaders already understand what matters to our dealers and customers.”

Re-gear and reward

Tom Wylie joined MMNZ in 2021 and has held key roles in both Finance and Aftersales. Most recently as Head of Aftersales, he now shifts focus to vehicle sales and dealer operations.

“I’m pumped for a new challenge,” said Wylie. “I have huge respect and admiration for our dealer partners, and I’m excited to bring my background in parts and service to help find synergies across the business, and to build on strong foundations to support our dealer network.”

Nathan Thomas, who joined MMNZ in 2015 from a dealership background, has progressed from Technical Services Advisor to Technical Services Manager, and now to Head of Aftersales.

“This is an amazing opportunity,” Thomas said. “I hope to use my industry experience to keep improving our outstanding dealer network and help them be the best they can be for our customers.”

Steven Blackmore has excelled as Technical Services Advisor since 2021 and, with valuable prior dealership experience, steps into the Technical Services Manager role.

Brown commented: “Steven’s combination of technical knowledge and overall diagnostic expertise makes him a natural fit for this leadership position.” 

Elliot Gill, who joined MMNZ in 2023 as a Technical Services Advisor, has been promoted to Senior Technical Advisor.

“Elliot’s problem-solving skills and strong technical insight will be invaluable in this new role,” Brown said.

He added: “These appointments reflect the true depth of talent already in our business. I’m confident they will further strengthen a team that thrives on working together to keep raising the bar for our customers.”