Isuzu Trucks New Zealand has announced the appointment of Dave Ballantyne to the position of general manager, filling the role left vacant by Colin Muir, who resigned from the business in April.

Ballantyne was promoted from his previous position of national sales manager, a post he held since joining Isuzu Trucks in September 2016.

“I‘d like to thank Colin for a smooth transition, it has been a seamless handover process and I look forward to building on the great work he did cementing the Isuzu Truck brand as the country‘s leading supplier of new trucks for 19 consecutive years,” said Ballantyne.

“I am committed to maintaining our excellent record in the New Zealand marketplace and am also looking to introduce some new initiatives which will continue to enhance our competitive advantage over the competition.”

Ballantyne has enjoyed an impressive career in the heavy diesel-powered commercial vehicles and earth moving equipment industry, having held a number of roles with a variety of brands, which has enabled him to develop a wealth of knowledge and experience, as well as industry contacts.

“I have quite literally spent my entire career involved with trucks and heavy machinery here and in Australia, from both a sales and service perspective,” said Ballantyne.

“I have a real passion for Isuzu Trucks and the industry as a whole, so look forward to strengthening the team, stepping up customer experience and seizing every opportunity to enhance the brand.”

GM Holden New Zealand managing director Marc Ebolo was equally enthusiastic about Ballantyne becoming general manager.

“Dave‘s appointment is recognition of his achievements as national sales manager over the past two and half years,” said Ebolo.

“He has proven himself in the market and the results speak for themself.  The dealer network is strong, while aftersales service and customer satisfaction continue to rise.

“Dave inherits the business in excellent health. I have every confidence he will build on the success of the brand and Isuzu has every opportunity for securing a 20th consecutive year as number one in the market.”