Personnel Articles ,

AEROKLAS Asia Pacific Group (AAPG) has appointed Evan Black as its new CEO.

Mr Black, who takes up the role on March 3, is a 20-year veteran of the automotive industry with extensive senior leadership experience across numerous industries including automotive.

He replaces Greg Kelly, who resigned in November 2024. In the interim, CEO duties have been carried out by AAPG chair and managing director Sally Vitoorapakorn.

Mr Black’s career spans roles in sales, marketing, general management, and managing director/CEO positions in both privately owned and large listed companies including having worked within AAPG’s flagship TJM business.

Evan Black

He has also worked for numerous well-known automotive businesses such as GUD, AMA Group and Kingsley Enterprises. His breadth of experience extends beyond the automotive sector, having also consulted to government, corporate, and SME businesses.

AAPG said the new appointment will be key in continuing its strategic growth plans and building AAPGs automotive brand portfolio with stakeholders both in Australia and in markets across the globe.

Ms Vitoorapakorn described Mr Black as “a visionary leader who has the capability to see AAPG deliver on our strategic goals and continue to deliver exceptional value to our customers”.

“His extensive experience in the automotive industry means he is ideally placed to grow our organisation both locally and to drive further growth in our international markets,” she said.

“We are excited to welcome him to our team and look forward to the positive impact he will have on our customers, suppliers and all our business stakeholders.”

Mr Black said he was eager to begin in the new role, keen to continue to grow the AAPG portfolio and engage with the business’s stakeholders.

“I thank the team at AAPG for giving me the opportunity to lead the organisation,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to connecting with the organisation’s customers and suppliers and delivering significant value for all stakeholders.

“Brands like TJM, Tough Dog, Bocar, XGS, Flexiglass all have huge value and heritage particularly in the Australian market and the potential for significant upside growth.

“AAPG has a strong base strategy that I’m excited to build upon and clear direction from the organisation’s board empowering the leadership team to deliver significant growth.

“This is truly an exciting opportunity and I’m keen to get started and hit the ground running.”

By Neil Dowling

Manheim
Gumtree
Manheim
Manheim
ConnectedVehicles
DealerCell
PitcherPartners
Gumtree
MotorOne
Impel
AdTorque Edge
Schmick