Mercedes-Benz Auckland: Celebrating the Legacy and Welcoming the Future

3 April, 2024

As Mercedes-Benz Auckland continues its journey of excellence, we are delighted to share a significant change in management that marks both the pinnacle of a distinguished career and the dawn of a new era.

After almost 11 years of exemplary leadership, Trevor Walmsley (pictured above) has announced he will be stepping down from his role of Dealer Principal at Mercedes-Benz Auckland, effective from 10th April 2024. Trevor leaves a legacy defined by integrity, professionalism and unwavering dedication, amid distinctions including the 2023 Mercedes-Benz Retailer of the Year Award, and with it, admittance into the exclusive Mercedes-Benz Circle of Excellence.

Trevor’s expertise and knowledge have been instrumental in guiding Mercedes-Benz Auckland through periods of growth, challenge and transformation. Accordingly, he has earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and customers alike while solidifying the dealership’s position as a frontrunner in the luxury automotive sector.

“My career in the motor industry has spanned four decades and multiple brands, and I feel extremely fortunate to have been involved in such a dynamic, exciting and customer-focused field,” he confirms. “It was a privilege to be appointed in 2013 to lead a truly iconic dealership, then known as Coutts Newmarket, and I am incredibly proud of everything the team has achieved since that time. I leave confident that the dealership is in very good hands. Going forward I am keen to retain a degree of involvement in the industry, albeit at a less hands-on level.”

Trevor will be passing the torch to Michael Collins, the current General Manager at the dealership.

Introducing our New Dealer Principal: Michael Collins.

Michael brings a remarkable pedigree of Mercedes-Benz brand experience to the position, having worked for Mercedes-Benz Auckland for over 20 years. Initially joining the company as a Sales Cadet, Michael’s exceptional leadership qualities, strategic vision and deep understanding of industry dynamics have seen him rise to top management, and for the past decade, he has been Trevor’s second in command

Having immersed himself in an array of roles throughout the dealership to ensure firsthand familiarity with every aspect of the business, Michael’s proven track record ensures he is the ideal successor for this important role. His move to Dealer Principal is not only a natural progression but will also ensure a seamless transition for the dealership.

Grateful for Trevor’s mentorship and support over the years, he is adamant that the level of quality and professionalism that customers have come to expect from the dealership will remain unchanged.

“I’m excited to step into the Dealer Principal role and look forward to building upon the foundation laid by Trevor,” expressed Michael. “My focus lies in upholding the high standards of leadership and service that define Mercedes-Benz Auckland, and in working alongside our talented team to achieve our shared goals.”

Commenting on the management change, John Ingham, CEO of parent company Ingham Group, stated, “We are immensely grateful for Trevor’s outstanding leadership and contributions to both Mercedes-Benz Auckland and the Ingham Group as a whole. As he embarks on a well-deserved semi-retirement, we welcome Michael into his new role with full confidence in his ability to continue the dealership’s tradition of excellence, growth and delivering unparalleled service to our customers.”

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