Gough Group announces new CEO - Liz Ward

February 20, 2018.

Gough Group announces new CEO - Liz Ward

Gough Group has announced the appointment of Liz Ward as its Chief Executive, following a highly competitive recruitment process.

Keith Taylor, Chair of Gough Group, is delighted at the appointment of Ms Ward to lead the next phase of the organisation’s development, following the departure of long standing CEO Karl Smith.

“Liz brings a track record of leading and implementing transformational business change across a wide range of industries. Her customer-driven, results focused approach, coupled with an inclusive leadership style, will help build upon a strong organisational culture that delivers results.

“Her significant executive and governance experience, together with her record of transformation and engagement, position her well to drive Gough Group’s strategic aims of creating exceptional customer experiences and inspiring our people,” he said.

Executive Director Ben Gough sees the appointment of Ms Ward as a clear statement of direction for the Group. “The Gough Group must continue to lead our markets in the products and services we provide and do so across a range of platforms. Liz comes to us with a powerful record of innovation that will enable developments we believe our customers want to see.”

Ms Ward has previously held roles as CEO of Kennards Hire based in Sydney, Executive Director Customer Services for Sydney Trains, CEO of CentrePort, and significant executive positions in Telstra, Spark, and EDS. She is an Independent Director on the Board of Moana Fisheries and was previously Director of the New South Wales Telco Authority.

The Gough Group has a history stretching back nearly 90 years and is recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading heavy equipment, materials handling, power system, and truck and trailer parts suppliers. Representing premium brands such as Caterpillar, Palfinger, Hyster and Sany through more than 60 branches across New Zealand and Australia, and supported by 950 dedicated employees, the Group delivers vital support and service across all sectors of the New Zealand economy.

Ms Ward takes up the role of CEO on March 12, 2018, based initially in the Hornby, Christchurch Head Office for the Group, before moving to Auckland later this year.

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