Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) is strengthening its dealer network with the appointment of industry executive Ella Letiagina to the role of head of network development.
Letiagina brings automotive and management experience, both here in Australia and internationally to the IAL team, along with a background in law and a Master of Business Administration in economics and management.
She replaces Ben Lasry, who late last year stepped up into the role of chief of sales and aftersales role.
IAL chief operating officer Andrew Harbison says Letiagina’s appointment further strengthens the company’s leadership team.
“Heading up the Network Development team the aim is to continue to strengthen our relationship with our dealers and to look at how we can continue to meet the needs of our customers now and into the future,” Harbison says.
“Ella comes to us with extensive experience in the automotive industry both locally and overseas and brings some unique perspectives into the IAL leadership team.”
Letiagina’s automotive experience began on the floor of a dealership in Europe. She subsequently worked her way through all levels of the industry, including product, sales, supply chain, network development and business development for several different passenger vehicle and truck brands.
“When I look at an idea, I tend to put on each hat and consider what the dealer will think, what the customer will think and what the manufacturer will think,” Letiagina says.
“In the first quarter I’m planning to meet as many key dealers across the Isuzu Australia network as possible. Isuzu Trucks’ 34 consecutive years of market leadership is a phenomenal feat.
“I believe this is something unique which is not repeated anywhere else in the world. This is not just one generation of management, it’s several generations of management, in the dealerships as well,” she says.
After delivering record sales amid several years of covid-related lockdowns, border closures and supply chain disruptions, Letiagina says IAL’s dealer network is now preparing for the future.
“The main focus this year is to work with the dealers, to establish a relationship, to listen to them, understand all the challenges and how we can work together to continue to grow Isuzu,” Letiagina says.
“Within the training department, we plan to spend time reviewing our training offering to provide dealers training programs that reflect the dynamic nature of the truck industry.”
As well as being fascinated with technology and innovation, Letiagina says she drew on her legal background to understand the changes to Australia’s franchise code.
“I am looking forward to bringing some fresh eyes and experience in this role and it’s really exciting to be working with such a successful and forward-thinking organisation in IAL,” she says.
