Dennis to return to MTUDDA

Navistar Auspac Managing Director Kevin Dennis will soon return to MTU Detroit Diesel Australia to head up its on-highway business

MTU Detroit Diesel Australia (MTUDDA) has announced that Kevin Dennis will shortly return to the engine and power systems distributor to head up its on-highway division.

Mr Dennis left MTUDDA late last year, assuming the post of Managing Director of Navistar Auspac (then known as NC Global Australia) from outgoing MD, Bill Fulton, from January 1, 2014. At MTUDDA Mr Dennis had previously held the roles of Branch Manager – Victoria and Tasmania, Group Manager Off-Highway Markets, and Market Development Manager – C&I and Rail. He has also previously held posts with Perkins and Daimler Trucks North America.

Mr Dennis's new role at MTUDDA, where he will manage on-highway sales and dealer development for the Australia/Pacific region, begins on October 20. He and his team will also provide product and technical support for MTUDDA's on-highway products.

According to Rob Sisk, President and CEO of MTUDDA, the appointment represents a welcome homecoming for Mr Dennis.

"Kevin has proven success in developing our market share and capitalising on growth opportunities and his appointment is critical as we continue the upward expansion of our on-highway business in Australia and New Zealand," he said.

"We’ll be looking to Kevin’s strong leadership, business acumen, as well as his in-depth knowledge of the truck and engine market cultivated over 30 years’ of global experience, to further enhance our potential."

Mr Dennis returns to MTUDDA at an interesting juncture in the company's history, as it's currently in the process of being acquired by Penske Automotive Group from existing owners Daimler AG and MTU Friedrichshafen.

The deal is expected to be finalised by the end of this year, and will realise numerous efficiencies and synergies as US entrepreneur Roger Penske furthers his push into the Australia/Pacific region. Penske's Australian operation, Penske Commercial Vehicles, holds the local distributorship rights for truck brands MAN, Western Star, and Dennis Eagle.

Penske is no stranger to Detroit Diesel. Penske Automotive Group actually purchased Detroit Diesel in 1988 and owned it until 2000, when it sold it to Daimler. It also operated Detroit Diesel in Australia and New Zealand for a number of years through that period.

Mr Sisk says Mr Dennis will play a key role in unlocking MTUDDA's potential under its new owner.

"These are really exciting times at MTU Detroit Diesel Australia: not only do we have a new shareholder in Penske Automotive Group who is primed to invest in the growth of our business, we have an experienced and skilled team who are determined to take the business to the next level," he said.

Dennis to return to MTUDDA

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