14 - 16th May 2026

14 - 16th May 2026

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Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director – BAPCOR

Chris Wilesmith

Chris joined Bapcor in January 2026, bringing extensive automotive aftermarket and C-suite experience.

With deep experience across all aspects of trade, retail and supply chain operations in both Australia and New Zealand, Chris’ former executive roles include Group CEO & MD of Jaycar Electronics, CEO of Mitre 10 (New Zealand) and 13 years as part of the Super Retail Group Executive Leadership team, including over seven years as Managing Director of Supercheap Auto.

Chris has held board roles with Carpet Court Australia, Australian Automotive Parts, Penrite Oil, Brandlines, Automotive Superstore and Jaycar.

Brembo – Technical Expert & Global Trainer

Siti Abdullah

Since 2003, Siti has held various roles across the automotive industry, gaining hands-on experience and technical expertise in workshop operations, parts sales, and technical support, particularly in clutch and brake systems. She currently creates and delivers training for Brembo’s Aftermarket Global Business Unit, where she is passionate about sharing Brembo solutions with professionals around the world.
Siti is a dedicated advocate for technical excellence and diversity in the industry. Focused on empowering others through training and education, Siti works to ensure individuals and businesses stay up to date with the latest advancements in automotive technology, particularly in the fast-evolving aftermarket sector.
A strong supporter of diversity and inclusion, Siti actively promotes greater representation within automotive, encouraging others—especially women—to pursue careers in the field. Through her work at Brembo, she continues to make a meaningful impact by combining technical expertise with a commitment to a more inclusive and dynamic industry.

Capricorn Society – Group CEO

BRAD GANNON

(B.Comm, LLB (Hons), GradDipACG, GAICD (OM), FGIA, FCG, FAIM)
Brad is the Group CEO of Capricorn Society Ltd, Australasia’s largest automotive parts buying cooperative, serving more than 32,000 Members with annual purchases exceeding $4 billion.

Appointed Group CEO in January 2025, Brad has been with Capricorn for over 17 years. He previously led Capricorn’s Automotive business as CEO and, earlier, served as Company Secretary and General Counsel. A lawyer by profession, he began his career with Solomon Brothers, progressing from article clerk to Partner before moving into corporate leadership.

Known for driving innovation and transformation, Brad has consistently delivered strategies that enhance Member value and strengthen Capricorn’s growth. As a leader, he is recognised for inspiring people and empowering teams to perform at their best.
Brad is also an experienced director and governance professional. He serves as a Director of several Capricorn subsidiaries, is a NED with the Business Council of Cooperatives and Mutuals and Western Rock Lobster, and was a Councillor on the WA State Council of the Governance Institute of Australia for more than seven years.
He is a graduate of the Harvard Business School, holds a Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Laws from UWA, is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and a Fellow of the Governance Institute of Australia.

GPC Asia Pacific – Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer 

ROB CAMERON

Rob Cameron is the Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of GPC Asia Pacific, the largest automotive aftermarket and industrial parts supplier in Australia and New Zealand, generating annual revenue in excess of $3.7 billion. 

Rob has more than three decades of experience in the automotive aftermarket, beginning his career in 1992 with ABW Tools before transitioning to Stanley following its acquisition of ABW. In 2003, he joined GPC Asia Pacific as Chief Financial Officer of Ashdown-Ingram and was appointed Executive General Manager in 2007. In January 2017, Rob was named Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of GPC Asia Pacific. 

A passionate advocate for the automotive aftermarket industry, Rob has dedicated much of his career to supporting its growth and evolution. He served nearly eight years on the Board of the AAAA and remains an active contributor to industry conferences, trade shows, and leadership forums, including as a representative of the AAAA Canberra Leaders Circle. He is also a regular speaker at supplier and customer events and is committed to mentoring emerging leaders within the industry. 

Rob holds Bachelor’s degrees in Information Technology and Commerce from Griffith University and has completed executive education programs at Wharton, Monash University, China Europe International Business School (CEIBS) in Shanghai, and IESE Business School in Spain. He recently completed executive studies in Artificial Intelligence and Business Strategy at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). 

co owners – l1 automotive group

liz & Keith Perkins

Liz has spent over six years immersed in the automotive industry, working across multiple advanced roles including mobile module programming, ADAS calibration, key systems, and technical instruction. Her hands-on experience and teaching ability make her a respected expert in both service execution and technician development.
 

With over 2 decades of experience in the automotive industry, Keith has served in nearly every technical and leadership role—from engine machinist and dyno tuner to diagnostic technician, instructor, and technical information specialist. His deep technical expertise and hands-on experience make him a trusted authority in diagnostics, programming, and industry education.

Keith is the co-owner of L1 Automotive Group, alongside his wife Liz. The group is comprised of three distinct businesses:

    • L1 Automotive Diagnostics and Programming — A mobile-only service provider supporting repair shops and collision centers across Tulsa and Oklahoma City with advanced diagnostics, ADAS calibration, module programming, 1234yf handling, and immobilizer/key solutions.
    • Level 1 Automotive — A full-service brick-and-mortar repair facility delivering complete repair and maintenance services to the public in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
    • L1 Automotive Training — A technical training company that is globally recognized as the authority in technical training, delivering online education, live instruction at major expos worldwide, and custom content development for leading industry organizations and government entities.

Topdon USA – Training & Development Specialist

scott hicks

Scott Hicks is a combat veteran who served 10 years in the US Army and has spent 17 years in the automotive industry. He holds ASE Master Technician, MACS and OE certifications, with a career largely focused on European vehicles and factory training from BMW and Honda.

Scott has worked across both dealership and independent environments, holding roles including Shop Foreman, Team Leader, Trainer, Service Advisor and Service Manager. Over the past decade, he has specialised in electrical and drivability diagnostics, bringing a structured, practical approach to complex fault-finding. Teaching and mentoring have been a constant throughout his career. Scott is a trainer with CTI and WTI and has presented at leading industry events including STX, VISION and ASTA.

expert technologist – Australian Lubricants Association

Ross walker

Ross Walker. Ross has worked in lubricants for 30 years and is a member of the Australian Lubricants Association Technical Committee as well as a certified Lubrication Specialist with the Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers.

automotive application specialist – pico technology

steve smith

Steve Smith began his career in 1983, rising from a YTS apprentice to a Toyota/Lexus Master Technician. Over three decades on the shop floor, he earned numerous accolades, including becoming a three-time Toyota Technician of the Year and taking silver at the European Skills Grand Prix.

In 2013, Steve joined Pico Technology as an Automotive Application Specialist. Today, he leverages his extensive diagnostic expertise to support PicoScope users globally. Whether through written case studies, “problem car” videos, or training sessions, Steve is dedicated to helping technicians master the diagnostic journey and navigate the evolving complexities of modern vehicle repair.

head of technical transformation – mycar tyre and auto

Thomas Hatch

Thomas Hatch is the Head of Technical Transformation at mycar Tyre & Auto, bringing a hands-on, solutions-driven mindset shaped by his upbringing on a remote family farm. From fixing machinery to building systems and leading teams, Tom applies practical skills with strategic insight to drive business-wide transformation.

Technically minded and deeply analytical, Tom is known for his precision, creative problem-solving and commitment to continuous improvement. He combines a strong technical foundation with a passion for developing new ideas, systems and technologies. His leadership is defined by high personal standards, attention to detail, and a focus on getting things done—accurately and efficiently.

Executive General Manager – ADAS

Rob mildenhall

Rob Mildenhall is a senior automotive industry leader with more than two decades of experience directing sales teams and delivering strong results across the supply chain. His leadership strengths—strategy, communication and empowerment—are underpinned by his passion, determination and confidence.

Rob’s career includes senior roles such as General Manager of Gearmax (formerly Borg Warner), Business Development Manager for Capricorn in South Africa, and National Panel Manager for Capricorn’s collision sector in Australia. He has spent 21 years specialising in OEM and collision repair, and served as Chairman of the Motor Industry Workshop Association, the Business Chamber, and on the RMI Board and Executive Committee in South Africa.

Since 2018, Rob has focused on the growing ADAS sector, working with leading suppliers and advocating for access to OEM repair methods for the independent repair market.

chief people and culture officer – bapcor

merryl dooley

Merryl joined Bapcor in October 2022 as Chief People and Culture Officer.

Merryl is an experienced strategic executive who has held Chief People Officer (CPO) roles for over 10 years across entertainment, retail and fashion.

Merryl is a commercial and empowering leader with a global mindset and proven experience in facilitating cultural and transformational change, with a passion for building values-led, inclusive organisations.

She was Chief People and Sustainability Officer at Decjuba and prior to that was the CPO at Tabcorp Holdings Limited for over 10 years where she had accountability for People, Culture, Safety and Communications.
Merryl holds a Masters of Business Administration from the University of NSW, and a Bachelor of Arts (Education) from Melbourne University. She is also a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) and President of the Williamstown Football Club and a member of the Hawthorn Football Club nominations committee.

General Manager – Repairify Australia

matthew douglass

director of government relations & advocacy – aaaa

lesley yates

Lesley Yates is Director of Government Relations and Advocacy for the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association. Lesley manages AAAA advocacy campaigns, designing creative and innovative solutions to address the greatest challenges facing our industry and then lobbying and encouraging government to make the right decisions to support our industry.

In 2021, after a decade of AAAA campaigning for fair and open competition, the new motor vehicle repair law was passed in Australian Parliament. This legislation is the result of a tireless and persistent grassroots campaign by the AAAA. Lesley is now tackling our ongoing substantial industry challenges, including the workforce shortage crisis and government vehicle modification regulations.

chief people officer – mycar tyre & auto

fiona murphy

Fiona Murphy is the Chief People Officer at mycar Tyre & Auto. In this role, Fiona is responsible for HR, Safety, Talent, Internal Communications, L&D and Sustainability.

Prior to joining mycar, Fiona held senior HR roles across many industries and three continents, including education; community services; not for profit; retail; media; technology; and engineering. With qualifications in psychology and law, Fiona’s expertise spans employee relations, employee engagement, learning and organisational development, and workplace health and safety. She is passionate about building great cultures and ensuring organisations have a people first focus.

In addition to her role at mycar, Fiona was Deputy Chair of the Automotive Light Vehicle Industry Reference Council for a number of years, and is now a proud member of AAAAWomen, championing careers for women in the automotive aftermarket.

Principal Lawyer – industry legal group

Emma Dalley

Emma is the Principal Lawyer and Director of Industry Legal Group Pty Ltd (ILG) which delivers the AAAA Employer Assist member service in partnership with the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association.

Emma is admitted as a lawyer of the Supreme Court of Queensland and has a dual degree in Business Management and Law. Emma is an experienced employment lawyer with a special knowledge and understanding of the industry having provided workplace relations advice and support to the Automotive Aftermarket industry for more than 8 years.

owner – highfields mechanical

craig baills

Craig Baills has over thirty years of experience and success in the automotive industry, as both a technician and business owner.

 

As a director with the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), MTAQ Committee member and owner of two workshops – Highfield Mechanical and Hi-Mech Auto Solutions Craig has a broad understanding of the automotive industry and the challenges and opportunities facing the aftermarket. 

 

From workshop management, developing key customer relationships and aftermarket support, Craig has a track record of success implementing processes that improve efficiency, reduce costs and ultimately increase revenues in line with company objectives.

 

Craig has a deep desire to leave the automotive industry in a better place than when he started, and help other automotive aftermarket workshops survive and grow in a rapidly changing industry and enjoys sharing his knowledge at industry events across the country.

CEO – Business success global

robert snook

Professionally, Robert has 42 years of 360 degree collision industry experience having worked at all levels in bodyshops, then a paint company, multi-site distribution and co-owning a fast growing, multi-award-winning MSO bodyshop business.

Today, he is known as the owner and CEO of Business Success Global, where he is a sought after global keynote speaker, professional event moderator, licensed business coach, respected consultant, trusted mentor and engaging trainer for well known brands across the global collision industry.

Personally, Robert is based in the UK and Türkiye, but works globally. Robert happily lives with Vivien, his partner of 36 years. They have one son Owen, who is married to Ella and two grandchildren, Thomas and Henry who Grandpa absolutely adores and teaches plenty of things he probably shouldn’t 😊

director – fifth quadrant

ben selwyn

Ben Selwyn is a highly experienced research analyst, who has spent over 15 years advising clients in automotive, telecommunications, financial services, technology and the public sector.

He leads the fifth quadrant automotive practice in providing strategic insights to leading aftermarket suppliers, and works closely with the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) on its market intelligence program.

Ben is an expert at working with big data and making it relevant to day-to-day business decision making. He is highly valued for his analysis of trend data and his ability to predict future trends and how the industry should respond to these trends.

Chief people officer – amotiv

barbara harrison

Barbara has over 20 years leading People & Culture teams in organisations across both private and public sectors in Australia and New Zealand. Having worked with Amotiv (formerly GUD Holdings) for the past five years, Barbara describes moving to her current role as Amotiv’s Chief People Officer as one of the best decisions made in her career to date.

Barbara loves working with great people in support of creating a culture where people can thrive and be their authentic and ‘best self’ at work – firmly believing that by putting people at the heart of what an organisation does, great commercial, professional, and personal outcomes can be achieved.

Chief people officer – gpc asia pacific

Aileen Hayes

Aileen Hayes is the Chief People Officer at GPC Asia Pacific the largest automotive aftermarket and industrial parts supplier in Australia and New Zealand.

Aileen has been in the Automotive Industry for over 15 years. Prior to joining GPC, Aileen spent several years in HR and Operations roles with the Home Depot North America. She started her career in the aviation sector with Airways Air Traffic control New Zealand before holding various HR Manager and Strategy consulting roles in the United Kingdom.

As Chief People Officer, Aileen is responsible setting and overseeing the execution of the business’s overall people strategy harnessing her passion for attracting and retaining incredible talent and developing a highly capable, customer centric and engaged team. Promoting our industry to attract the next generation of aftermarket talent is a passion and crucial focus.

With a degree in Psychology, Aileen has also completed several Executive Education programs at Wharton and Emory University USA and Monash University.

Aileen is also proud member of AAAAWomen, championing careers for women in the automotive aftermarket.

CEO – AAAA

stuart charity

Stuart Charity is a passionate, well respected industry leader, having served the automotiveindustry in a variety of roles across a distinguished career. Stuart is CEO of the AustralianAutomotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), which represents 4,100member businesses andthe entire automotive aftermarket, an industry which contributes $25B annually to theeconomy.

Stuart’s previous career experience has enhanced his knowledge and market understanding tomake informed strategic decisions and offer respected insights. Before his time at AAAA, Stuartserved as the Executive Director of the Society of Automotive Engineers Australasia (SAE-A).Earlier, as the Automotive Industry Specialist with Austrade, Stuart successfully assistedautomotive component manufacturers to develop new export markets.

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