Kenchington describes the new role as an extraordinary opportunity: “The automotive industry has experienced more change in the past five years than in the previous twenty years. It is an incredibly exciting and challenging time, but Giltrap Group has the best automotive brands and the best people, and I cannot wait to lead our 1,000-strong team.”

“I envision a future where the family-owned Giltrap Group continues to be a leader in the automotive industry, adapting to the changing landscape and maintaining its commitment to being a great New Zealand company driven by the love of cars,” he adds.

Joining Giltrap Group in 2010, Kenchington was General Manager of Scandinavian Motor Distributors (Volvo & Renault); in 2015, he was named General Manager of Motorcorp Distributors (Jaguar Land Rover), becoming CEO in 2021.

He is a 27-year automotive industry veteran, having held executive positions in the automotive finance industry in New Zealand and the UK. Kenchington was also the Managing Director of Sime Darby Automobiles NZ from 2001 to 2007.

Chris Quin, Giltrap Group Chair, likens the new leadership structure to turbo-charging the Group, “Steve has a proven ability to lead high-performance teams, and he knows our business inside and out. The Board is confident that the company will continue to thrive under his leadership. His promotion to CEO is not just a new role—it reflects his capability to take Giltrap Group to the next level.”

Giltrap Group remains a family-owned business, and Richard and Michael Giltrap, as Executive Directors, remain actively involved in the company founded by Sir Colin Giltrap in 1966.

Richard Giltrap says, “As Group CEO, Steve will be able to concentrate on the day-to-day success of the business, which will allow Michael and I to focus on major investments, partnerships and future growth opportunities for our business.”

During their nearly two decades as Joint Managing Directors, Sir Colin's guidance was integral to the Group's success and growth. “We can never underestimate the wealth of knowledge and experience that our father was able to impart. Now, with more than six decades in the industry between us, we want to take on a similar role,” says Michael Giltrap.

Kenchington will continue as CEO of Motorcorp Distributors until he commences his new role on 1 February 2025.