Former Ford New New Zealand managing director Simon Rutherford has been named the new chief executive of independent importer Auto Distributors NZ (ADNZ), the division of Armstrong Motor Group that distributes Peugeot, Citroen, Opel, LeapMotor and Smart.
Rutherford grew up in Malawi, Africa and was educated in the UK. He has worked in automotive roles in the UK, China, Thailand and United States and came to NZ in 2016 to head up Ford, a position he held until 2024 when he moved to the position of GM marketing strategy launch and integration, for the Ford International Markets Group.
“I’m excited to be given the opportunity to lead the ADNZ team at a time of considerable transition, disruption and opportunity in the motor industry," says Rutherford. "I intend to build strong, collaborative and enduring relationships with all my colleagues and our OEM partners, dealers and suppliers."
“We are delighted to have someone of Simon’s calibre join the group at this critical time," says Armstrong’s Group chief executive Troy Kennedy. "Simon is a hugely experienced automotive executive, bringing significant global and local knowledge and proven strengths in distribution, retail, operations, strategy, sales, marketing and customer experience.
“Simon is well respected within the NZ automotive industry and was president of the Motor Industry Association from 2022-24. In his new role Simon will have oversight of all ADNZ brands, including the development and growth of the Leapmotor and Smart brands, where we see significant growth opportunities".
Founded by Rick Armstrong in 1993, Armstrong’s employs over 600 people and retails over 16,000 vehicles per year. It's one of NZ’s leading automotive groups, operating 20 dealerships and representing 18 global automotive brands across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin.
It also operates a wider range of automotive businesses including Armstrong's Auto Body Panel & Paint, Drive Holidays and a partnership in Auctions Online.