New Appointments Boost CoolDrive Auto Parts

2 Jul, 2024

CoolDrive Auto Parts is proud to announce four key appointments as the company continues to grow its product range and nationwide network of branches.

A new addition to the team is Jim Santef, who has joined CoolDrive as the National Sales Manager for Tools and Equipment.

Jim is highly regarded in the automotive aftermarket industry and brings a wealth of experience in particularly in workshop equipment, hoists, wheels, tyres, and other specialised areas. 

In this role, Jim will focus on providing technical support, generating sales quotations, and broadening CoolDrive's Tools and Equipment range.

Elsewhere, Tony Stephens will transition into a Key Project Manager position to support the organisation's ever-expanding strategic projects and key corporate initiatives.

Previously, Tony held the position of Queensland and Northern Territory Regional Manager.

As a result of CoolDrive’s continual growth and expansion, it has now split its Queensland and Northern Territory region into two distinct areas – Southern Queensland, and Far North Queensland & Northern Territory.

Lance McMaster will take on the responsibilities of the Regional Manager position across the Southern Queensland region, and Dallas Smith has been appointed Regional Manager for Far North Queensland & Northern Territory.

Lance’s previous roles within CoolDrive include being the National Sales Support Manager, and as a Business Development Manager, while Dallas has been Branch Manager at both the Darwin and Alice Springs branches. 

“We warmly welcome Jim aboard, and congratulate Tony, Lance and Dallas on their new roles within the CoolDrive Auto Parts family,” said John Blanchard, Executive Chairman, CoolDrive Auto Parts.

“Jim will be a valuable resource for supporting the CoolDrive team with technical assistance and sales quotations, while also expanding our Tools and Equipment product range, and Tony is an industry veteran whose experience will serve CoolDrive and our customers well.

“Lance is well-placed to manage, lead and grow CoolDrive’s presence throughout the Southern Queensland region, while Dallas has been instrumental in the success of CoolDrive in the Northern Territory and will continue to grow and expand the business in our new Far North Queensland and Northern Territory region.

“For our company to continue on its growth journey, it is imperative that we invest in the best and brightest in the trade, resulting in ever-improved service for our customers.

“Furthermore, this is another demonstration of CoolDrive's efforts to be an employer of choice, with career growth pathways for people who love the automotive trade.

“I am incredibly proud of our company's recent achievements, with our highly experienced staff leading the way as we continue to enhance all facets of operation.

“We wish Jim, Tony, Lance and Dallas all the best.”

Established in 1977, CoolDrive Auto Parts is a 100 per cent Australian family-owned business that has grown to operate 36 branches across Australia and New Zealand, employing over 850 people.