HSV MD returns to UK

Hot on the heels of recent management changes at FPV, the HSV dealer network was informed this week that HSV Managing Director Mr Phil Harding would be leaving his HSV position to return to the UK.

In rather more positive circumstances than his opposite number at FPV, Harding is leaving HSV's local operations to head up HSV's big export drive into Europe and the Middle East.

For HSV, these developments are a welcome combination of opportunity and skills. Harding came to Australia via the Walkinshaw organisation after leaving a distinguished career as engineering chief of Rolls Royce. He was HSV's first managing director to be appointed after founding HSV head John Crennan took a back seat in day-to-day HSV operations.

Harding's engineering background was in direct contrast to Crennan's sales and marketing focus but was exactly as required at a time when HSV engineering input and investment reached its highest levels ever.

After overseeing the introduction of new technologies such as the world-beating Magnetic Ride Control suspension and the development of the all new E series range, Harding's work was immediately rewarded with three consecutive months of new HSV sales records.

With the E series established locally, Harding appears to be the perfect appointment to oversee its introduction to the European and Middle East markets when he is familiar with all engineering aspects and is in a unique position to liaise with his former colleagues at HSV's Clayton headquarters to deal with local requirements.

Harding's time at HSV was always going to be short to medium term when he had to leave behind his family to take up the reins at HSV.

It is believed that John Crennan will assume a caretaker role for the next three months or however long it takes until a replacement is appointed. CarPoint has been told that the net is being cast wide for Harding's replacement, an appointment that must also meet the Holden board's approval.