PEDDERS Suspension and Brakes has appointed Scott Meneilly as its new CEO, becoming the company’s first non-family chief executive officer when he joins on June 23.

His appointment coincides with Pedders’ 75th anniversary celebrations at its annual conference, which outlined plans for business targets for even greater success in the future.

Pedders said that Mr Meneilly brings a wealth of experience to the business from a distinguished career spanning more than two decades in CEO roles at Retail Zoo (Boost Juice Bars, Betty’s Burgers, and Salsas Fresh Mex), Sushi Sushi, and most recently Minor DKL Food Group (The Coffee Club and Nomad Coffee Roasters).

Scott Meneilly

In a statement, the Australian-founded global suspension and brakes company described Mr Meneilly as “a proven architect of growth and innovation”.

“His dynamic approach to driving success in franchise and family-owned businesses positions him uniquely to steer Pedders toward even greater heights.”

Pedders managing director Scott Pedder said: “Scott’s extensive experience and alignment with our core values of family, quality, innovation and specialisation will drive Pedders to new heights.

“This change is an investment in our future, ensuring that we continue to deliver ‘Better Journeys’ to our staff and customers in Australia and around the world.”

Mr Meneilly said: “I am delighted and honoured to be appointed as the first non-family CEO at Pedders Suspension and Brakes.

“Through their shared dedication and passion, the Pedders family, Pedders staff and franchisees have grown the business into one of Australia’s leading automotive brands.

“I will be joining the company at an incredibly exciting time and am looking forward to collaborating with the Pedders board, staff and franchise partners to enable Pedders to enjoy even greater success over the next 75 years.”

The appointment of a new CEO marks a significant transition for Pedders, while remaining firmly rooted in its family values.

Scott Pedder, along with Mark Pedder and Caroline Pedder, will continue to play an integral role in the business as board members. Their collective seven decades of experience will be invaluable in guiding the company’s strategic direction and supporting Mr Meneilly in his new role.

“Pedders has always been a family business, and that will not change,” said Scott Pedder.

“Our success has been built on the efforts of many families who have dedicated their careers to Pedders. As board members, we will continue to support the business and ensure that our core values remain at the heart of everything we do.”

Scott Meneilly’s appointment comes at a time of sustained growth for Pedders, with the business doubling in size over the past five years.

The company said that his leadership will be instrumental in “unlocking the untapped potential within the company and driving future success”.

“Scott is energised by a shared commitment with staff, the board and franchisees to shape the future of Pedders and ensure that the company continues to thrive,” Mr Pedder said.

Pedders was established in 1950, growing from humble beginnings as a small die-cast welding shop in the Melbourne suburbs to become an iconic brand in the aftermarket automotive sector with a network of over 120 outlets across Australia and a presence in over 40 countries.