Ross Prevette

Up 2 Speed Ltd caters mainly to the automotive industry and offers a diverse range of management, marketing, consultancy, specialist vehicle sourcing and valuation services.

Up 2 Speed Key Contracts & Notable Achievements:

Core Business Services:

• Provide specialist vehicle valuation services for major insurance and finance companies, supporting accurate underwriting and lending decisions.
• Deliver a bespoke vehicle sourcing service for high-net-worth clients, managing the import and export of classic, luxury, and collectible cars.
• Oversee end-to-end logistics, compliance, and international supplier relationships to ensure seamless cross-border transactions and premium client experience.

Autochecks NZ – Contract Role, Director of Operations

• Secured NZTA accreditation as an authorised entry certification provider, establishing the company as a trusted player in New Zealand's automotive compliance sector.
• Built and scaled a national vehicle compliance network, delivering regulatory support to leading automotive importers and wholesalers across multiple regions.
• Forged senior-level partnerships with NZTA, ensuring alignment with evolving compliance frameworks and strengthening the organisation's regulatory credibility.
• Directed nationwide expansion, overseeing site selection, workshop setup, and operational rollout to achieve seamless service delivery and full regulatory compliance.
• Recruited, developed, and led a high-performing compliance team, embedding a culture of safety, integrity, and quality assurance.
• Designed and executed the company's strategic roadmap, aligning operations with regulatory obligations and growth objectives to drive long-term market positioning and sustainability.

Matamata Panelworks – Contract Role, Business Manager

• Partnered directly with the Owner/Director to establish a new business division building and selling Shelby vehicles, parts and accessories in New Zealand.
• Negotiated licensing, dealership agreements, and supply contracts with Shelby American, Carroll Shelby Licensing, Ford Motor Company (USA), and Ford NZ.
• Collaborated with the Low Volume Vehicle Technical Association (LVVTA) to define and implement certification requirements for Shelby vehicles in New Zealand.
• Recruited and managed a specialist team to operate the new division, overseeing day-to-day operations, supply chain, and logistics.
• Secured an exclusive New Zealand agency agreement with Tickford Racing to manufacture Tickford-enhanced Ford Mustangs and Rangers in New Zealand.
• Administered the acquisition of Almac Cars, managing integration and operational setup.
• Coordinated with manufacturers and suppliers to source parts and materials for Almac vehicle production.
• Worked closely with the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) to achieve World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) status for Almac vehicles.

Founded and directed Speedshow NZ Ltd, a specialist automotive events company delivering a full suite of event management services, from new vehicle launches to large-scale corporate showcases.

• Owned and operated the annual CRC Speedshow, recognised as Australasia's largest automotive expo, featuring new vehicles, motorsport, motorcycles, live outdoor action, and interactive entertainment.
• Scaled CRC Speedshow into a premier national event, with year-on-year growth in attendance, culminating in the 2017 edition outgrowing the Auckland ASB Showgrounds.
• Built and maintained a high-value network of international manufacturers, motorsport teams, sponsors, media partners, and aftermarket distributors, establishing long-term industry relationships.
• Directed end-to-end event operations, including sponsorship acquisition, exhibitor management, logistics, media partnerships, and on-site delivery.
• Developed and executed a comprehensive marketing and PR strategy, driving brand visibility and audience engagement across multiple platforms.

Founded and grew a nationwide licensed dealership and fabrication business specialising in the sales, service, restoration, and custom fabrication of cars and motorcycles.

• Identified a market gap and established the business as a leading custom automotive dealer/fabricator in New Zealand, building a strong national brand presence.
• Expanded into franchised retail, becoming an authorised BRP dealer for Can-Am and Sea-Doo products, adding new revenue streams and diversifying operations.
• Directed all aspects of business operations including sales, marketing, supplier negotiations, fabrication, and after-sales service, while managing a multi-skilled technical team.
• Successfully grew the business to include special interest American vehicle sourcing and sales, capitalising on the emerging collectible car market.
• Won multiple national awards for custom-built motorcycles in 2008, enhancing brand credibility and industry reputation.
• Achieved NZ BRP Dealer of the Year (2010) and subsequently awarded Australasian BRP Dealer of the Year (2010/2011), outperforming competitors across the region.
• Successfully exited the business through a profitable sale in 2010, transitioning into a career in marketing and event management.

Acquired a 50% stake in a struggling Hi-Fi retailer (annual turnover < NZD $150K) and transformed it into one of New Zealand's first specialist custom audio-visual solution providers.

• Expanded service offerings to include commercial A/V, automation, and security design and installation, positioning the company as a market leader in integrated technology solutions.
• Secured and managed a nationwide client base, delivering large-scale projects for Bunnings, Foodstuffs, Carter Holt Harvey, Mitre 10 Mega, Sylvia Park, and Auckland International Airport.
• Directed all aspects of business operations including sales, marketing, supplier partnerships, project management, and financial control, while leading a growing technical and installation team.
• Scaled annual turnover from NZD $150K to NZD $2.5M+ within six years, establishing the business as a highly profitable industry leader.
• Positioned Angell Sound Vision as one of NZ's leading A/V specialists, pioneering the shift from retail to integrated commercial technology solutions.
• Exited the business via a profitable sale in 2004, leveraging success to transition into the automotive and event management industries.

• Held responsibility for managing all Council revenue streams, including rates, water, licensing, and associated income sources.
• Managed a team of 10 staff, providing leadership, training, and performance management to ensure accurate and efficient revenue collection.
• Prepared and presented monthly financial reports and budget forecasts to Council, supporting informed decision-making and fiscal planning.
• Ensured compliance with all relevant legislation, policies, and audit requirements relating to local government revenue management.
• Implemented process improvements to enhance accuracy, transparency, and efficiency in revenue collection and reporting.

• Began career as a livestock sales cadet, quickly demonstrating strong sales and negotiation ability.
• Promoted to Sales Representative within one year, responsible for servicing a portfolio of rural clients across the Whakatāne district.
• Built and maintained strong relationships with local farmers, supporting livestock sales, valuations, and market advice.
• Developed early expertise in client management, negotiation, and revenue generation, laying the foundation for a career in business development and leadership.
• Established a loyal client base through trust, service, and strong relationship management.