Mike Critchley

AUTOMOTIVE Holdings Group (AHG), which has been expanding its footprint within the Auckland market, has appointed Mike Critchley to the recently created position of AHG country manager for New Zealand.

Mr Critchley has been dealer principal the AHG’s North Harbour Ford and North Harbour Mazda dealerships.

The company’s acting country manager, Gary Gooding, will remain with AHG in a consulting and mentoring role.

Mr Critchley has 20 years of experience with AHG NZ and was part of the former Ford Auckland Automotive Collection which was acquired by AHG in 2006.

The company said in a statement that “he has been highly successful as dealer principal of the AHG’s North Harbour Ford and Mazda franchises”.

AHG chief operating officer of franchised automotive, Paul Morris, said Mr Critchley was the outstanding candidate for the position.

“As many of you are aware, Mike has worked in a range of position across AHG and AAC and brings a wealth of knowledge to the business,” Mr Morris said.

“Mike will hand over his DP responsibilities over the coming weeks to sales managers Steve Fraser and Keith Shaw. Steve will commence as acting dealer principal of North Harbour Ford and Keith at North Harbour Mazda for a three month period, after which the positions will be advertised for permanent appointment.”

Mr Critchley will report to Paul Morris.

By John Mellor