ISUZU Australia Ltd (IAL) has promoted Andrew Harbison to managing director and CEO, succeeding Takeo Shindo who is returning to Japan to resume duties with parent company Isuzu Motors Limited (IML) after five years leading the Australian operation.

Mr Harbison was previously IAL chief operating officer and director.

Shindo-san arrived in Australia in 2021 with more than 35 years of experience within the global Isuzu organisation, bringing with him extensive international leadership across corporate, operational, product and retail roles.

Andrew Harbison becomes Isuzu Australia CEO as Takeo Shindo returns to Japan

His career with IML has spanned major markets including Japan, North America, Africa and Southeast Asia, giving him a broad perspective on the global commercial vehicle industry and positioning him well to guide the Australian business through a period of growth and industry change.

Joining during the latter stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, Shindo-san led IAL during a dynamic time for the Australian automotive sector.

During his tenure, the company strengthened its market leadership while navigating global supply chain challenges and prepared for a major product transition across its market-leading truck range.

Reflecting on his time in Australia, Shindo-san said the experience had been both professionally rewarding and personally meaningful.

“Australia holds a very special place in the global Isuzu network, and it has been a great honour for me to serve as managing director and CEO of Isuzu Australia Limited,” he said.

“Over the past four years I have had the privilege of working alongside a highly capable and committed team, supported by a professional dealer network that represents the Isuzu brand with great pride.”

Shindo-san said the demands of the Australian market are globally unique, requiring an unwavering focus on customer outcomes, support and above all, reliability.

“The success of Isuzu in this environment is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of the IAL team and our dealer partners across the country,” he said.

Incoming CEO Andrew Harbison, Isuzu Motors Limited

“What I will remember most warmly are the friendships and strong relationships I have been fortunate to build during my time here. The Australian Isuzu family is very special, and I leave with many lasting memories.”

Incoming CEO Andrew Harbison acknowledged the significant contribution Mr Shindo has made to the Australian organisation.

“The years that he has been with us, have been some of our most successful, he will be greatly missed,” Mr Harbison said.

“From a business perspective, we could not have asked for a more qualified, better connected or more enthusiastic advocate for our operations here in Australia. His leadership, insight and unwavering dedication have been instrumental in strengthening our position in the market.”

Mr Harbison said Shindo-san’s close relationships within Isuzu Motors Limited, combined with his expertise in areas such as sales strategy, product development and business planning, had delivered lasting outcomes for the Australian business.

Takeo Shindo, former CEO, Isuzu Motors Limited

“On a personal level, I know I speak on behalf of the entire Australian Isuzu family, from our head office team through to our national dealer network, in saying that ‘Tac’ will be sorely missed.

“He has not only been a strong and passionate leader for this region, but also a genuine friend to many of us.

“Osewa ni narimashita. Thank you, friend, and farewell.”

Mr Harbison said he was honoured to take on the role of managing director and CEO as the organisation enters its next phase.

“I’m looking forward to working closely with our teams, dealer partners and customers as we guide the business through its next phase of growth,” he said.

“The Australian transport landscape is evolving rapidly, and Isuzu Trucks is well positioned to respond. While our reputation has been built on delivering reliable and efficient equipment, we are increasingly focused on supporting our customers more broadly across their operational needs.”

Mr Harbison started at IAL in early 2005 in the role of Queensland zone manager, and before joining Isuzu, held the position of district sales manager for Holden in Queensland.

He has also worked with Auto One Australia and has over a decade’s experience with Beaurepaires and Dunlop in both the retail and wholesale operations.