New MD for PACCAR Australia

PACCAR Australia will soon have a new Managing Director, with Damian Smethurst set to officially take the reins from outgoing MD, Andrew Hadjikakou, from Monday, May 8.

According to a press release issued today (May 2) from PACCAR Australia, Mr Smethurst has worked within the organisation for 25 years, having held positions spanning Director of Operations, Chief Engineer, and most recently as General Manager for PACCAR Parts Australia, where he led the division to “consecutive years of record levels of customer support and parts availability”.

Mr Smethurst praised Mr Hadjikakou, who leaves to begin the next phase of his life outside of PACCAR and the road transport industry.

“Andrew has worked tirelessly throughout his eight years leading PACCAR Australia,” he said. “He has championed many critical initiatives including our recent $50 million factory expansion and leaves the business in excellent shape.

“I am honored to have been entrusted with leading this amazing business. My focus is firmly on the people – our staff, our dealers, and suppliers – who make this organisation what it is, and on our customers, who are the reason for our existence.

“I am excited about supporting and empowering our teams, to foster a culture of operational excellence and innovation, and strengthening our relationships with customers across Australia and New Zealand.”