VIA appoints new chairman
The chief executive officer of Turners Auto Retail has been named as the new chairman of the Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA).
Greg Hedgepeth, pictured, joined the board in July 2023 and takes over as chairman from Frank Willett, chief executive of Autohub.
“I am honoured to take on the role of chairman at such a pivotal time for our industry,” says Hedgepeth.
“I look forward to building on the strong foundation laid by my predecessor and steering VIA through the evolving landscape of the automotive sector.”
Willett was made interim chairman in May last year before being voted into the position on a permanent basis two months later.
He remains a member of the VIA board but has relinquished the top job due to his current workload.
Willett says: “It has been a privilege to serve VIA and I am proud of what we have accomplished together. I am confident that under Greg’s leadership, VIA will continue to thrive and effectively represent our members’ interests.”
The change came at VIA’s annual general meeting in June, when Matt Battle, general manager of Moana Blue, also rejoined the board of directors.
Battle was one of the inaugural directors after a restructuring of the organisation in July 2020.
Greig Epps, VIA chief executive, says Willett provided outstanding leadership during his time as chairman but time pressures and other responsibilities meant he has had to step away from the role.
“I’ve really enjoyed the support Frank has given me as I took on my first chief executive role, and Greg, since stepping up to the chairman’s spot, has also given me similar levels of support and assistance,” adds Epps.
The full VIA board of directors for 2024/25 is Greg Hedgepeth, chairman – Turners, Frank Willett – Autohub, Robert Young – Nichibo NZ, Hayden Johnston – GVI, and Matt Battle – Moana Blue.
VIA also reported a positive financial outcome for the fiscal year at its meeting, which it says underscores its resilience and strategic management amid challenging market conditions.
“The positive financial results reflect our proactive strategies and the collective effort of our members and board,” says Epps.
