FORMER Eagers Automotive CEO Martin Ward has moved from four wheels to two after being appointed to the board of Australia’s biggest motorcycle retail group, Motorcycle Holdings Ltd.

Mr Ward, who left Eagers in February 2021 and became a consultant to the company, is one of two new faces on the Motorcycle Holdings (MTO) board, with both he and Katie McNamara bringing automotive and retail experience to the board.

Serving as CEO of Eagers from July 2005 – when it was AP Eagers – to February 2021, Mr Ward was responsible for the takeover of what was at the time Australia’s second-biggest automotive retailer, AHG Ltd, and for Eagers’ $470 million portfolio of owned properties, leased real estate and strategic investments.

Ms McNamara brings more than 20 years of experience in top-tier consulting, retail and FMCG (fast-moving consumer goods) businesses. She has worked in Asia developing market strategies and defining and implementing digital transformation, particularly with a focus on consumer products and retail businesses.

She joined Super Retail Group in April 2019 as chief strategy and customer officer, with responsibility for corporate strategy integration and execution, analytics, marketing and customer strategy.

Mr Ward is also on the board of the Australian Automotive Dealers Association (AADA) after being elected in January 2014.

His early career includes international executive leadership roles in automotive distribution, retail and services companies in Asia, the Middle East and Australia.

Prior to Super Retail Group, Ms McNamara was vice president of Asia-Pacific for IBM, leading digital strategy.

MTO chair David Foster said: “In Martin and Katie we have appointed two proven leaders with an outstanding understanding of the motor industry.

“Both are experienced and well respected across the industry. They will play pivotal roles in helping to shape the group’s strategy into the future.

“Martin brings incredibly relevant experience to the group. With Eagers, he recently led a transformational merger, navigated the COVID-19 pandemic, and steered the company through major structural and cyclical challenges.

“Katie’s consistent customer-first, technology-driven approach makes her an excellent fit for our organisation as it enters its next phase of growth and digital transformation as an omni-channel retailer.

“Her fresh perspective and executive experience in a leading automotive products, tools and in-car technology company will ensure our business strengthens its position as the market leader in the motorcycle industry.”

 

By Neil Dowling