Isuzu Australia Announces Management Transition & Next Phase of Leadership

Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) has announced a leadership transition that will see Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Takeo Shindo, conclude his assignment in Australia, with Director and Chief Operating Officer Mr Andrew Harbison appointed to lead the organisation into its next chapter.

Mr Shindo (Shindo-san) will step down from his role as Managing Director and CEO on 31 March 2026, returning to Japan to resume duties with parent company Isuzu Motors Limited (IML) after five years leading the Australian operation from its Melbourne headquarters.

Mr Harbison will assume the role of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer effective 1 April 2026.

A storied legacy

Shindo-san arrived in Australia in 2021 with more than 35 years of experience within the global Isuzu organisation, bringing with him extensive international leadership across corporate, operational, product and retail roles.

His career with IML has spanned major markets including Japan, North America, Africa and Southeast Asia, giving him a broad perspective on the global commercial vehicle industry and positioning him well to guide the Australian business through a period of growth and industry change.

Joining during the latter stages of the COVID pandemic, Shindo-san led IAL during a dynamic time for the Australian automotive sector. During his tenure, the company strengthened its market leadership while navigating global supply chain challenges and preparing for a major product transition across its market-leading truck range.

A key milestone of Shindo-san’s posting in Australia was the successful introduction of the MY25 model range, representing the most significant product changeover in the company’s history.

A special posting

Reflecting on his time in Australia, Shindo-san said the experience had been both professionally rewarding and personally meaningful.

“Australia holds a very special place in the global Isuzu network, and it has been a great honour for me to serve as Managing Director and CEO of Isuzu Australia Limited,” he said.

“Over the past four years I have had the privilege of working alongside a highly capable and committed team, supported by a professional dealer network that represents the Isuzu brand with great pride.”

Shindo-san said the demands of the Australian market are globally unique, requiring an unwavering focus on customer outcomes, support and above all, reliability.

“The introduction of our MY25 model range has been an important milestone for the business and a reflection of Isuzu’s long-term commitment to the Australian market. Delivering such a comprehensive product transition requires strong cooperation across many areas of the organisation, and I am proud of what our team has achieved together.

“Australia is a demanding market that values reliability, durability and strong customer support. The success of Isuzu in this environment is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of the IAL team and our dealer partners across the country.”

Beyond business

Beyond the business outcomes, Mr Shindo said the relationships formed during his time in Australia would remain with him long after he returns to Japan.

“What I will remember most warmly are the friendships and strong relationships I have been fortunate to build during my time here. The Australian Isuzu family is very special, and I leave with many lasting memories.”

IAL Director and Chief Operating Officer Andrew Harbison acknowledged the significant contribution Mr Shindo has made to the Australian organisation.

“The years that he has been with us, have been some of our most successful, he will be greatly missed,” Mr Harbison said.

“From a business perspective, we could not have asked for a more qualified, better connected or more enthusiastic advocate for our operations here in Australia. His leadership, insight and unwavering dedication have been instrumental in strengthening our position in the market.”

Mr Harbison said Mr Shindo’s close relationships within Isuzu Motors Limited, combined with his expertise in areas such as sales strategy, product development and business planning, had delivered lasting outcomes for the Australian business.

“The results achieved during his tenure speak to his strategic foresight and commitment to excellence.

“On a personal level, I know I speak on behalf of the entire Australian Isuzu family, from our head office team through to our national dealer network, in saying that ‘Tac’ will be sorely missed.

“He has not only been a strong and passionate leader for this region, but also a genuine friend to many of us.

“Osewa ni narimashita.” Thank you, friend, and farewell.”

A new chapter

Mr Harbison said he was honoured to take on the role of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer as the organisation enters its next phase.

“I am honoured to step into the role of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at such an important time for Isuzu Australia Limited and I’m looking forward to working closely with our teams, dealer partners and customers as we guide the business through its next phase of growth.

“The Australian transport landscape is evolving rapidly, and Isuzu Trucks is well positioned to respond. While our reputation has been built on delivering reliable and efficient equipment, we are increasingly focused on supporting our customers more broadly across their operational needs,” he said.

As a subsidiary, IAL’s connection to Isuzu Motors Limited in Japan remains fundamental to its ongoing success, as Mr Harbison notes.

“The close alignment with our parent organisation ensures we continue to benefit from global expertise, technology and strategic direction as we strengthen our position in the Australian market. Building on this relationship will remain a focus as we move ahead with this new management structure.”

Safe hands

Andrew began at IAL in early 2005 in the role of Queensland Zone Manager, and before joining Isuzu, held the position of District Sales Manager for Holden in Queensland.

He has also worked with Auto One Australia and has over a decade's experience with Beaurepaires and Dunlop in both the retail and wholesale operations.

Future focussed

Mr Harbison outlined the broader strategy for Australia’s number one truck brand, with an eye on the future. ​ ​

“A key part of our strategy moving forward will be strengthening our role as a mobility partner for Australian businesses. That means thinking beyond the vehicle itself and exploring new ways we can support customers with integrated transport solutions, services and technologies that help keep their operations moving.

“Our dealer network will remain central to this vision. Their deep understanding of local markets and strong customer relationships will help us deliver a consistently high level of service and ownership experience as we expand our offering.

“I’m genuinely excited about the opportunities ahead. “With the support of a highly experienced leadership team, a dedicated staff cohort and the backing of the global Isuzu Group, we are in a strong position to continue building the Isuzu brand and delivering long-term value for our customers and partners across Australia.”

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