Former top Mitsubishi manager now heads MTA in SA

The Motor Trade Association of South Australia has announced the appointment of former Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited executive Paul Unerkov as its new CEO.

Mr Unerkov’s new role comes almost a year after he left MMAL, having served the Japanese brand for 23 years and held key positions in areas such as advertising, product planning, national sales and marketing. His last position was vice-president of customer and brand management.

As GoAuto reported at the time, Mr Unerkov was one of three two-decade-plus veteran managers to depart MMAL from late in 2012 to mid-2013 as the company restructured its Australian operations.

Since his departure, he has worked as an industry consultant.

At the MTA Mr Unerkov replaces John Chapman, who resigned in January after eight years of service.

“The MTA is a respected association with an impressive history of providing the South Australian retail automotive sector a voice, especially with key public policies, and helping support its member businesses to reach their full potential,” Mr Unerkov said.

“I see the organisation building on that foundation and continually improving to ensure we provide our members with the ideas, skills, development and opportunities they need to thrive into the future.

“I am looking forward to working with the team and MTA members to drive the sector forward as a vital part of the South Australian economy,” he said.

MTA president Neville Gibb said Mr Unerkov was well placed to lead the organisation, which is the peak body for the retail motor industry in the state and has around 1100 members.

“The addition of Paul as our new CEO will ensure the MTA continues to be an important and relevant voice for the retail automotive industry in South Australia,” he said.

“His background as a senior manager in the retail automotive sector combined with his more recent consultancy experience, which focused on growing businesses and developing management teams, is critical for the MTA moving forward.

“Our industry, like the entire business community, continues to face many challenges, and with Paul’s guidance the association and its staff will be able to continue to work for our members and help them successfully navigate the current economic climate.”