Incoming O’Connors CEO Gareth Webb (L) will be taking over the reins from Managing Director Mark O’Connor (R) who is set to retire later this year.
A change of leadership for Case IH dealer O’Connors
A new era is ahead for award-wining Case IH dealer and family business O’Connors, with the announcement today that Managing Director Mark O’Connor will be retiring at the end of this year, after 42 years service to the company.
According to Chairman of the board, Richard Lewis, Mark will be replaced by Group Operations Manager Gareth Webb, who will take on the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) from 1st July 2018, allowing for a generous transition period before Mark’s retirement commences.
“On behalf of O’Connors, I thank Mark for his continued efforts to ensure the business remains a market leader in total farming equipment solutions,” said Richard, who adds that Mark will continue to serve the company through his position on the board.
“With Mark’s intention to remain on the board, a six-month leadership changeover period and an internal appointment in Gareth, we are confident O’Connors will continue to deliver a first-class service to our customers.”
Having worked for O’Connors since 2004, Gareth began his employment in the Sales Team at Birchip, before taking on the role as Branch Manager. He has held his current role of Operations Manager for 4 years.
Gareth’s appointment will be the first time in the company’s 54-year history that the head of the organisation is a professional from outside the family. According to Richard this is just another example of O’Connors’ commitment to the ongoing success of the business.
“There remains a strong family involvement in the company, both at staff and board level, and we are confident that Gareth’s appointment as CEO is the right decision to ensure we continue supporting our customers’ farming businesses to the highest level possible,” said Richard.
Whilst he is incredibly humbled, Gareth says he’s not fazed by the change in era.
“It’s a great honour to be appointed to the role. I’m very respectful of all of Mark’s efforts and I know he is handing over the reins to a company with a proud history and a strong foundation for me to build upon,” said Gareth, who is looking forward to the transition.
“I’m grateful to Mark for initiating such a measured retirement plan from a handover perspective. I’ve learnt a lot from him during my time at O’Connors and I know his guidance between now and the end of the year, combined with support from the board, will help me ensure O’Connors remains at the forefront of the market when it comes to customer service and commitment.”