Shining a light on excellence within its dealer network, Isuzu’s Team Elite program has been running for more than 25 years.
Team Elite is an incentive, points-based competition format covering all aspects of customer care, from sales and service to product and parts knowledge.
The benefits of the Team Elite program are manifold, matching Isuzu’s transport products with highly skilled truck specialists.
IAL Head of Aftersales, Brett Stewart, says the value of such programs is more critical than ever as technology and customer needs evolve.
“Isuzu has always relied on an experienced network of truck sales consultants and service technicians to support buyers and their businesses locally,” said Stewart.
“The Team Elite program not only recognises the skill and effort behind this but works to cultivate a culture of excellence within our national network,” he says.
Top of the crop
Capping off the 2023 Team Elite program was the national champion sales consultant competition, which assesses competitors across three fields of knowledge: product, brand, and truck model–specifics.
The three finalists for the year were Josh Tuddenham of Westar Trucks (VIC), Shane Hilder of Webster Trucks (TAS), and Richard Pineros of Blacklocks Isuzu (VIC).
“Demonstrating excellence across all aspects of the competition and accumulating the highest points overall, Shane Hilder has once again been awarded the title of national champion sales consultant,” says IAL Head of Sales Craig White.
“Shane continues to do Isuzu proud with his dedication to expanding his wealth of knowledge and sharpening his sales skills.
“Well done to all our finalists, especially to Shane, who secured his ninth win in Team Elite competition history.”
“Competing against Josh and Richard was a lot of fun; they are two great guys honing their craft, and we need people like this to take the business into the future,” said Hilder.
“I’d like to acknowledge Isuzu Australia’s effort in making the Team Elite event a special occasion. Their consistent emphasis on keeping it fresh and challenging aligns with how seriously they take the rest of their business.
“It certainly keeps you on your toes and is a great opportunity to take a holistic approach to the sales process.”
Part and parcel
The 2023 Team Elite categories for service and parts also saw strong finishes in their respective areas.
In the service manager category, Scott Sell from Westar Truck Centre (VIC), Jonnie Arnel from Ballarat Isuzu (VIC) and John Tsacos from Wagga Motors (NSW) were recognised for exceptional performance in attaining service goals and initiatives.
In the parts manager category, the top scores were attained by Ashley Ryan from Patterson Cheney Trucks (VIC), Stephen Twardochleb from Canberra Isuzu (NSW), and Ryan Macauley from Midcoast Trucks (NSW), demonstrating outstanding knowledge and practice in the field of parts management.
Stewart said these categories were not to be overlooked, as Isuzu’s commitment to speedy availability of genuine quality parts to the national dealer network remained a high priority.
“Strong aftersales support is all part of our commitment to serving Australian businesses and a vital part of ensuring Isuzu trucks remain on the road for these valued customers.
“My wholehearted congratulations to our service and parts winners whose dedication to the task makes the Isuzu dealer network and the brand shine,” he says.
