Autobarn parent Bapcor’s CEO Angus McKay has resigned; Chris Wilesmith takes the reins as CEO and managing director in January.
Bapcor has suffered three profit downgrades since McKay took the helm, and the turnaround plan has taken longer than expected.
Wilesmith brings extensive automotive aftermarket industry experience to his new role. He has been group CEO and managing director of Jaycar Electronics, CEO of Mitre 10 New Zealand, and in executive leadership at Super Retail Group.
Lachlan Edwards, Bapcor chair, said “Chris brings deep and broad automotive aftermarket experience to Bapcor. His previous senior roles in growing businesses in each of Bapcor’s segments will be critical to take our businesses into their next phase of driving growth and performance.”
McKay, who took on the role in 2024 after eight years leading 7-Eleven, will assist Wilesmith in a transition period.
Edwards thanked McKay on behalf of the board for his contribution to the company.
“In his 16 months with Bapcor, there has been significant progress in simplifying the company. With our business foundations stabilised, Bapcor is now focused on its recovery and growth,” Edwards said.
