Kiwi-owned TRT has appointed Neil Webb as general manager and new investment partner of its Australian operations – the first ever external shareholder for the family-owned company.
The company, a major manufacturer and distributor of transport and construction equipment, says it “identified an opportunity to seal TRT’s long term commitment in Australia, and to its relationships with customers, and dealers with the appointment of Webb”.
TRT director and shareholder Bruce Carden says the company is now at “a pivotal moment” with its Australian operations.
“To deliver on our aspirations for growth in Australia, further positive change and repositioning of the business is needed to build and to remain relevant to our customers.
“TRT recently announced a major milestone for the business and launched the TRT – Made Possible brand, with a new look and feel, and we will continue to focus on growth as we move into the next phase with Neil at the helm.
“This is the first time TRT shareholders, the Carden Family, have looked externally for investment.
“This is a significant decision that reflects the commitment we have to our customers and partners in Australia. We are confident that this is the right step forward, to have a level of sector qualified Australian ownership on the ground. We see Neil as the right person to deliver this commitment and plan for growth,” Carden says.
Webb brings a passion for the crane industry and the people in it, with more than 27 years of experience. Most recently, he has spent 11 years offshore in both Papua New Guinea and Indonesia, working in the crane and mining support sector, as well as working with OEM brands, including Manitowoc and Terex.
He has owned and operated his own successful crane business and has a solid reputation in Australia and is well known and respected in the crane industry.
Webb will lead the TRT Australia team to support customers that have invested in TRT manufactured products, including TIDD Cranes, TRT Trailers, Crane pads and Traction Air, as well as OEM cranes from partners Manitowoc Grove, and Kobelco.
Webb says he’s excited by the opportunity and is returning to Australia to join the TRT team.
“I look forward to working closely with the TRT Australia team, our customers, and partners.
“We will continue to deliver success through innovation, expertise, and continuous improvement. All with enthusiasm, and a passion for the industry we all share,” he says.
TRT Australia country manager Marc Baumback had a pivotal role in helping shape the long-term plans and the change in leadership. He now departs TRT for another role in the industry.
“I am sincerely pleased to have been part of positioning TRT Australia for future growth. Neil’s appointment will provide our customers and partners with industry expertise and technical leadership to propel our service and parts support for the great range of TRT capital equipment,” Baumback says.
TRT director and shareholder Robert Carden says Baumback leaves TRT in a stronger position than when he joined a year ago.
“He has led the change in safety culture, has met the challenges of a global pandemic head on, and has created a team that is focused on enabling this growth. We wish him the very best for the next step in his career.”
He adds: “We are proud of the successes over the past 22 years in Australia. The strengthening of our Defence supply relationships, the momentum of the TIDD Crane, and the innovation of our patented ESS trailers, all of which are establishing a reputation in Australia for their innovation, safety, and utility.
“Our sales, servicing and parts teams are well regarded for their knowledge and empathy with our customers, as well as providing value at every opportunity.
“There is a real focus on regional support, product training, and aftermarket service for customers and partners.
“With 54 years in business, TRT is continuing its commitment to the industry and to its loyal customers and partners, by looking ahead with a new plan for growth. We are making the future possible and are excited by this new pathway to continue our momentum, to keep on growing,” he says.
