LISTED motorbike retailer and distributor MotorCycle Holdings Ltd has appointed Matthew Wiesner as chief executive, effective December 2024, to succeed company founder Dave Ahmet when he retires.
Mr Wiesner, currently managing director of Sime Darby Motors Group Australia, has 20 years of senior leadership experience in the wholesale and retail automotive industries and an extensive background in OEMs.
He has successfully led and transformed businesses across Australia, New Zealand and internationally, as managing director for various retail and wholesale organisations and has held key executive and strategic roles in publicly listed and privately held entities including leadership positions at Skoda Australia, Fiat Chrysler Australia and Jaguar Land Rover.
In a statement, MotorCycle Holdings said Mr Wiesner “has demonstrated a solid ability to drive performance, transform businesses, and achieve growth through operational excellence and strategic innovation”.
MotorCycle Holdings chair Rick Dennis said: “The board is confident that Matthew’s expertise, vision, and strategic acumen will be invaluable as the company strengthens its position in the market and pursues new growth opportunities.”
Mr Wiesner said: “It’s an exciting time to join the Motorcycle Holdings team as we look to the next phase of development and growth while the broader mobility industry continues to evolve at pace.”
MotorCycle Holdings has also appointed Michael Poynton as the group’s chief operating officer, effective immediately.
Mr Poynton joined the company in 2022 following the acquisition of Mojo Motorcycles and brings over 20 years of experience in the motorcycle industry.
He is currently executive director and general manager – Mojo. As the incoming COO, he will lead the group’s operations and continue to lead the Mojo business.
After 13 years as chief executive and managing director, Dave Ahmet will transition from his executive role to a non-executive director in December 2024.
MotorCycle Holdings said that Mr Ahmet will continue to be actively involved in shaping the company’s strategic direction and provide counsel to Matthew, ensuring a smooth handover while retaining a significant shareholding.
Mr Dennis said: “The board thanks Dave for his outstanding service to the company over many years. As founder, Dave has succeeded in building the company to be the leading and most successful motorcycle and accessories company in Australia, with a turnover in excess of $500 million a year.
“As board members, we look forward to Dave’s continuing involvement and guidance over the years to come.”
Mr Ahmet said: “Whilst retiring from the chief executive role, I intend to remain involved in the company’s strategic direction and assist Matthew in any capacity I can.
“I do, however, need to focus on my health following a recent accident, so the time is right for me to step aside and pass the baton.
“Motorcycle Holdings will benefit from Matthew’s track record of driving business growth and focus on results. I will stay closely involved in the business to ensure a smooth transition and intend to remain a significant shareholder.”
By Neil Dowling