CoolDrive Appoints New Chief Executive Officer

11 Jan, 2024

CoolDrive Auto Parts has appointed Gerard Belleville as its new Chief Executive Officer, following John Blanchard assuming the role of Executive Chairman.

A highly experienced and credentialed businessman Gerard Belleville joins CoolDrive with experience in a range of industry sectors. 

Gerard has been an audit partner in a number of Chartered Accounting firms for 27 years and most recently with Deloitte Australia for 17 years where he held a number of leadership roles.

John Blanchard assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer in 2005 from his father WJ (Senior), who, together with his wife Shirley, was the founder of CoolDrive Auto Parts.

“Recently, I have been reflecting on the growth of our business, our people and our position in the industry,” John Blanchard said.

“I am very proud of what the CoolDrive team has achieved, and I remain focused on our continued growth, not only in size but also in respect of the experience of our team, the quality and presentation of our branches, and the depth and breadth of our brands and products.

“I have also been reflecting on my role and how it aligns with the changing needs of the business, alongside my desire to expand the Blanchard Racing Team, prioritise spending more time with my family and enjoy travel and interests outside of work.

“To this end, I have made the decision to step into the role of Executive Chairman of CoolDrive Auto Parts and I am pleased to appoint Gerard Belleville as my successor and the new Chief Executive Officer.

“Gerard is already intimately familiar with CoolDrive, having been an advisor to the Blanchard family and the CoolDrive board for more than 15 years. Alongside Gerard’s existing knowledge of the business and the automotive industry, he has significant experience with large businesses, including family-owned companies, and the culture attached to them.

“The continued growth of CoolDrive brings increasing complexity and Gerard will bring of new layer of expertise to provide the support and focus for our management team. I have full confidence in Gerard and know that CoolDrive Auto Parts will be in the very best hands.”

During his time at Deloitte, Gerard acted for many large business groups, and was also involved in co-ordinating and leading transaction and advisory services to his clients, which included CoolDrive.