THE Institute of Automotive Mechanical Engineers has appointed Brad Kininjjew as acting chief executive officer. 

It said that he will focus on strengthening IAME’s membership, industry relevance, organisational sustainability and position as a respected national voice for automotive professionals. 

Mr Kininjjew is non-executive chair and director of Apprentices Are Us and was previously head of customer operations at Polestar.  

Brad Kininjjew acting chief executive officer at The Institute of Automotive Mechanical Engineers

Before that he was fixed operations manager at Central Auto Group and national training academy manager for Jaguar Land Rover Australia.

The IAME said Mr Kininjjew’s leadership approach was based on transparency, accountability, collaboration and practical decision-making. 

Apprentices Are Us managing director Michael Wentworth posted on LinkedIn that he has had “the privilege of working closely with Brad over a number of years, and I’ve come to know him not simply as a colleague, but as someone whose judgement, integrity and commitment I genuinely respect”. 

“He brings to the role extensive automotive industry knowledge, a strong understanding of governance and, most importantly, a genuine commitment to the people and businesses that make up our industry.  

“IAME has a proud history and an important place within the Australian automotive sector. Its next chapter requires strong leadership, renewed purpose and a clear focus on delivering value to its members. 

“I believe Brad is exceptionally well placed to help lead that chapter.” 

Dr Wentworth said leadership “is easy to talk about when things are going well”. 

“The real test comes when circumstances are difficult, decisions carry consequences and someone has to be prepared to step forward and take responsibility,” he said. 

“Brad has demonstrated that willingness. Leadership isn’t about the title you hold. It’s about what you do when people are relying on you to lead. Congratulations, Brad. Very well deserved.” 

The IAME aims to assist members by providing industry relevant automotive training, branch information sessions, seminars, as well as auditing, assessing and consulting services.  

Members also benefit from technology updates provided via “The Automotive Engineer” journal distributed seasonally.