Sturrock Saunders has extensive experience across New Zealand’s automotive and training sectors.
Sturrock Saunders.
Sturrock Saunders has been appointed chair of motor industry finance company MTF Finance.
The appointment follows the retirement of current chair Mark Darrow at the end of this month, to take up a new role as chair of Health New Zealand.
The company described the appointment as “a full-circle moment”, with Sturrock’s father having previously served on the board.
Sturrock’s career began in hands-on automotive retail, where he owned and led a multi-franchise dealership, giving him a strong understanding of dealer operations, customer expectations, and franchise economics.
He is currently president of the Motor Trade Association (MTA), co-chair of Dekra NZ (VTNZ), chair of motor industry training organisation Mito, and a director of Auto Stewardship New Zealand (ASNZ).
Acting chair Noel Johnston said the appointment reflected a strong alignment with MTF Finance’s heritage and future direction.
“Sturrock brings a deep understanding of our industry, alongside proven governance experience across complex, stakeholder-led organisations,” he said. “His background in the automotive sector, combined with his ability to bring people together and align around a clear strategic direction, makes him a natural fit for MTF Finance as we move into our next phase of growth.”
MTF Finance chief executive Chris Lamers said the appointment came at an important time for the business.
“Sturrock brings a strong understanding of our industry, but more importantly, he understands our model; one that puts people and relationships at the centre. As we build on a very strong foundation, and enter the next phase of growth for MTF, we do so with a strong and engaged team across the whole organisation,” Lamers said.
Saunders formally takes over the role on May 1.
This is supplied content and not commissioned or paid for by NBR.
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