Richard Dicello, Head of Motors Gumtree Cars

GUMTREE Cars has appointed Richard Dicello to the role of head of motors as part of the eBay-owned website’s ambition to be the number-one autos marketplace in Australia.

Mr Dicello has been associated with the motor industry for more than 20 years.

He was with BMW Financial Services for nine years as the general manager at BMW Brands Financing & Alphabet Fleet Services.

Locally, Alphabet Fleet Services is a division of the BMW Australia Finance Group and one of the world’s largest fleet management organisations.

Alphabet globally manages more than 670,000 vehicles.

Most recently, Mr Dicello was CEO of uFinance Australia which offers finance guidance for Australians for major purchases such as their next vehicle. He held the position for more than three years.

In this newly created role, Mr Dicello will be responsible for leading the growth ambitions of Gumtree Cars. The company says that he will be in charge of developing and implementing a ‘Motors’ business strategy, guiding its go-to-market approach, strengthening its dealer partnerships and strategy, and acting as a resident expert in all things automotive.

“I’m excited to lead a truly talented team at a really pivotal time for the brand, Mr Dicello said in a statement.

“We have an amazing opportunity to be a true partner to dealers, connecting them to the right buyers and becoming an integral part of their digital strategies. I believe Gumtree is well-equipped to provide even more value and I can’t wait to get started and support the team with what’s next.”

Martin Herbst, general manager of Gumtree Australia, said: “In our rigorous recruitment process, Richard stood out with his deep knowledge of the Australian automotive landscape and his unique insights into the car buying and financing journey from both a consumer and dealer perspective.

“Richard has strong leadership qualities and experience growing customer-centric teams and his passion and vision for Gumtree Cars was evident. I look forward to having him join our leadership team.”

Mr Dicello said he joined Gumtree “because of its potential”.

“It is a vibrant, fresh brand in the auto market that is fully focused on offering value to the community it serves through a simple, ever-evolving platform,” he said.

“We’re in a great position to add value to dealers across the country – and even disrupt the market a little.”

Read more on Gumtree Cars’ ambitions for the Australian market

Gumtree Cars seeks number one spot

How Gumtree Cars plans to be number one