Shane Youngman
Invercargill
Summary
As a third-generation member of a family that has played an integral role in the growth and leadership of GWD Motor Group, I bring a unique combination of deep operational experience, strategic capability, and family stewardship to the role of Chief Executive Officer. My career has been built across all facets of automotive retail, from service to sales to branch management to governance, providing me with an unparalleled understanding of the business. With over two decades of leadership, formal qualifications in business and governance, and a lifelong commitment to the Southland region, I am driven to honour the legacy of my grandparents while ensuring GWD Motor Group remains progressive, resilient, and a leader for the future.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Acting Chief Executive Officer
GWD Motor Group
Invercargill, Southland
01.2025 - Current
- Drove continuous improvement by fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and open communication across all levels of the organization.
- Reviewed individual department performance and worked with leadership to improve processes, procedures, and practices.
- Addressed employee and managerial concerns and implemented corrective actions to promote compliance.
Director
Netball South
Invercargill, Southland
01.2022 - Current
- Managed budgets effectively to ensure optimal use of resources while maintaining financial stability.
Director
GWD Motor Group
Invercargill, Southland
01.2011 - Current
- Managed budgets effectively to ensure optimal use of resources while maintaining financial stability.
- Strengthened internal controls by reviewing existing policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Achieved remarkable turnaround of underperforming divisions through strategic leadership and restructuring.
Southern Area Manager
GWD Motor Group
Invercargill, Southland
01.2018 - 01.2025
- Managed daily operations for optimal performance, ensuring timely completion of tasks and projects.
- Achieved high employee retention rates by creating an inclusive work environment where staff felt valued and supported.
- Coordinated with various departments to facilitate smooth communication, enhancing operational effectiveness.
- Implemented cost-saving measures that resulted in significant financial savings for the company without sacrificing quality or service.
Holden Dealer Principal
GWD Motor Group
Invercargill, Southland
01.2017 - 01.2020
- Established a strong company culture that promoted teamwork, accountability, and excellence across all departments.
- Determined monthly and yearly forecasts in terms of unit sales, gross profit objectives and departmental profits.
- Reviewed monthly commission sheets, productivity reports, monthly forecasts and profit performance.
Branch Manager
GWD Motor Group
Gore, Southland
01.2012 - 01.2018
- Continuously monitored branch performance against key performance indicators, taking corrective actions as needed to ensure objectives were met or exceeded.
- Oversaw daily operations for streamlined efficiency, ensuring timely execution of tasks and optimal resource allocation.
- Evaluated employee performance regularly through appraisals and feedback sessions to facilitate continuous development of skills and knowledge base within the team.
Holden Salesperson
GWD Motor Group
Gore, Southland
01.2012 - 01.2014
- Developed relationships with clients for increased loyalty and repeat business.
- Expanded customer base through targeted prospecting and networking efforts.
- Built relationships with customers and community to promote long term business growth.
Aftersales Manager
GWD Motor Group
Gore, Southland
01.2010 - 01.2012
- Maintained high standards of quality control by regularly reviewing repair procedures and technician certifications.
- Fostered a culture of continuous improvement through open communication channels that encouraged feedback from all team members.
- Maintained positive customer relations by addressing problems head-on and implementing successful corrective actions.
Parts Manager
GWD Motor Group
Queenstown, Otago
01.2005 - 01.2010
- Offered hands-on assistance to customers, assessing needs, and maintaining current knowledge of consumer preferences.
- Oversaw employee performance, corrected problems, and increased efficiency to maintain productivity targets.
- Established effective communication channels with other departments to streamline processes and improve interdepartmental collaboration.
- Supervised and trained staff on product knowledge and customer service.
Service Advisor
GWD Motor Group
Invercargill, Southland
01.2001 - 01.2005
- Educated customers on proper vehicle maintenance, fostering long-term relationships built on trust and loyalty.
- Managed multiple priorities simultaneously while maintaining strong attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.
- Contributed to team goals by proactively identifying opportunities for process improvements within the service department.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of product and service changes.
Skills
- People Management
- Project management
- Operational efficiency
- Financial management
- Sales and Marketing Acumen
- Stakeholder relations
- Governance and Compliance
- Organizational leadership
- Relationship and team building
- Executive leadership
Career Highlights And Achievements
- Led GWD Motor Group to Holden Grand Masters Group 2 Award (2019)
- Successfully diversified operations, integrating Tyreland into GWD Motor Group
- Strengthened the Group’s multi-franchise capabilities with Hyundai, MG, and Renault.
- Developed Parts, Service, and Paint & Panel into key revenue drivers
- Graduated from executive level leadership and governance programs
- Focused on internal talent development and fostering a modernized, professional company culture grounded in family values.
Personal Commitment
I am privileged to have been shaped by GWD Motor Group from a young age. My professional journey has been deeply intertwined with the growth and evolution of our business. I am committed to leading GWD Motor Group with respect for its heritage, strength in its current operations, and enthusiasm for the future, fully aligned with Toyota New Zealand’s strategic vision for electrification, customer experience excellence, and sustainable business growth.
Education And Professional Development
- General Motors Dealer Executive Program, 2016, Melbourne University, Strategic Planning and Leadership, Human Resources and People Management, Sales and Marketing, Variable Operations, Business Modelling
- Governance and Management Training, 2022, Red Rabbit & Co
- National Certificate in Business – First Line Management, 2011
- Otago Polytechnic, 2000 - 2001
- John McGlashan College, 1995 - 1999
Timeline
Acting Chief Executive Officer
GWD Motor Group
01.2025 - Current
Director
Netball South
01.2022 - Current
Southern Area Manager
GWD Motor Group
01.2018 - 01.2025
Holden Dealer Principal
GWD Motor Group
01.2017 - 01.2020
Branch Manager
GWD Motor Group
01.2012 - 01.2018
Holden Salesperson
GWD Motor Group
01.2012 - 01.2014
Director
GWD Motor Group
01.2011 - Current
Aftersales Manager
GWD Motor Group
01.2010 - 01.2012
Parts Manager
GWD Motor Group
01.2005 - 01.2010
Service Advisor
GWD Motor Group
01.2001 - 01.2005
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