Isuzu Australia Leadership Change: New CEO Announced for Next Growth Phase
Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) has confirmed a major leadership update, with Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mr Takeo Shindo set to завершe his tenure in Australia. Director and Chief Operating Officer Mr Andrew Harbison will step into the top role, guiding the company into its next stage.
Mr Shindo (Shindo-san) will officially step down as Managing Director and CEO on 31 March 2026, returning to Japan to take up a new position with parent company Isuzu Motors Limited (IML). He has led the Australian business from its Melbourne base for five years.
Mr Harbison will take over as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer from 1 April 2026.
Leadership Legacy: Takeo Shindo’s Impact on Isuzu Australia
Shindo-san joined the Australian operation in 2021, bringing more than 35 years of experience within the global Isuzu network. His background spans leadership roles across corporate strategy, operations, product development and retail.
Throughout his career with IML, he has worked in key markets including Japan, North America, Africa and Southeast Asia. This international exposure provided a strong foundation to lead the Australian division through a period of transformation and growth.
Arriving during the later stages of the COVID pandemic, Shindo-san oversaw a rapidly changing automotive landscape. Under his leadership, IAL reinforced its market position while managing supply chain disruptions and preparing for a significant overhaul of its truck lineup.
One of the defining achievements of his tenure was the launch of the MY25 model range — the most extensive product transition in the company’s history.
Reflections on Australia: A ‘Special Posting’
Reflecting on his time in Australia, Shindo-san described the role as both professionally fulfilling and personally meaningful.
“Australia holds a very special place in the global Isuzu network, and it has been a great honour for me to serve as Managing Director and CEO of Isuzu Australia Limited,” he said.
“Over the past four years I have had the privilege of working alongside a highly capable and committed team, supported by a professional dealer network that represents the Isuzu brand with great pride.”
He noted that Australia presents unique challenges, requiring strong focus on reliability, customer support and performance.
“The introduction of our MY25 model range has been an important milestone for the business and a reflection of Isuzu’s long-term commitment to the Australian market. Delivering such a comprehensive product transition requires strong cooperation across many areas of the organisation, and I am proud of what our team has achieved together.
“Australia is a demanding market that values reliability, durability and strong customer support. The success of Isuzu in this environment is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of the IAL team and our dealer partners across the country.”
Beyond Business: Lasting Relationships
Shindo-san emphasised that the relationships he built will remain one of the most memorable parts of his time in Australia.
“What I will remember most warmly are the friendships and strong relationships I have been fortunate to build during my time here. The Australian Isuzu family is very special, and I leave with many lasting memories.”
Mr Harbison acknowledged the significant contribution made by Shindo-san during his leadership.
“The years that he has been with us, have been some of our most successful, he will be greatly missed,” Mr Harbison said.
“From a business perspective, we could not have asked for a more qualified, better connected or more enthusiastic advocate for our operations here in Australia. His leadership, insight and unwavering dedication have been instrumental in strengthening our position in the market.”
He added that Shindo-san’s close ties with Isuzu Motors Limited, along with his expertise in sales strategy, product development and planning, delivered long-term benefits for the Australian operation.
“The results achieved during his tenure speak to his strategic foresight and commitment to excellence.
“On a personal level, I know I speak on behalf of the entire Australian Isuzu family, from our head office team through to our national dealer network, in saying that ‘Tac’ will be sorely missed.
“He has not only been a strong and passionate leader for this region, but also a genuine friend to many of us.
“Osewa ni narimashita.” Thank you, friend, and farewell.”
New CEO Andrew Harbison: Leading Isuzu Australia Forward
Mr Harbison said he was proud to step into the CEO role at a pivotal time for the business.
“I am honoured to step into the role of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at such an important time for Isuzu Australia Limited and I’m looking forward to working closely with our teams, dealer partners and customers as we guide the business through its next phase of growth.
“The Australian transport landscape is evolving rapidly, and Isuzu Trucks is well positioned to respond. While our reputation has been built on delivering reliable and efficient equipment, we are increasingly focused on supporting our customers more broadly across their operational needs,” he said.
He highlighted the importance of maintaining strong ties with the Japanese parent company.
“The close alignment with our parent organisation ensures we continue to benefit from global expertise, technology and strategic direction as we strengthen our position in the Australian market. Building on this relationship will remain a focus as we move ahead with this new management structure.”
Andrew Harbison Career Background and Experience
Mr Harbison joined IAL in early 2005 as Queensland Zone Manager. Prior to Isuzu, he served as District Sales Manager for Holden in Queensland.
His career also includes roles with Auto One Australia, along with more than ten years of experience at Beaurepaires and Dunlop across both retail and wholesale sectors.
Future Strategy: Growth, Innovation and Customer Focus
Looking ahead, Mr Harbison outlined a forward-thinking strategy aimed at strengthening Isuzu’s position as Australia’s leading truck brand.
“A key part of our strategy moving forward will be strengthening our role as a mobility partner for Australian businesses. That means thinking beyond the vehicle itself and exploring new ways we can support customers with integrated transport solutions, services and technologies that help keep their operations moving.
“Our dealer network will remain central to this vision. Their deep understanding of local markets and strong customer relationships will help us deliver a consistently high level of service and ownership experience as we expand our offering.
“I’m genuinely excited about the opportunities ahead. “With the support of a highly experienced leadership team, a dedicated staff cohort and the backing of the global Isuzu Group, we are in a strong position to continue building the Isuzu brand and delivering long-term value for our customers and partners across Australia.”
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