CEO’s Message

MTA CEO, DARRELL JACOBS

As a new year begins, the extraordinary privilege of being appointed to the role of CEO of the Motor Trade Association SA/ NT is not lost on me. I have a clear vision for the MTA – to be the best automotive skills, careers and service provider. Building on Paul Unerkov’s tremendous work, I am committed to delivering this to ensure members can ultimately remain doing what they do best –running their business.

Coming into the role I bring sheer enthusiasm in representing one of the most important industries to the South Australian economy and South Australians at large. Classified as an essential service throughout the COVID-induced lockdowns, automotive keeps our state moving. This is where getting the public policy settings right for automotive businesses is critical across retail, service and repair. Equally still, the MTA must be fit for purpose to deliver the key services to our members, those that train with us and business who employ our apprentices.

To meet this goal, the MTA is revitalising our internal organisational structure. As part of our vision for the association to be the best automotive skills, career and service provider we are synergising our resources in 2023 and beyond.

On a practical level for members and MTA customers, we are integrating our field operations across training, employment and divisions. Our goal is to support your business better by having more representatives in industry, understanding the key issues and helping solve them as quickly as we can.

I’m also excited to be rolling out the MTA’s new apprentice training and skills development model. This new blended model of training, which commenced just a few weeks ago, is an exciting initiative where apprentices will be provided more practical support, greater flexibility and additional time with their host business. This new model is a direct result of industry consultation with MTA members. It will mix on-site and workshop learning and importantly will result in trainers visiting apprentices and employers to work together for the best outcomes for all. There will also be the added benefit of assisting businesses who we know are dealing with acute labour shortages by giving back more of their apprentice’s time to the workshop.

Moving forward, I look forward to leaning on the guidance of our Chair, the Board, the Industry Advisory Council and all members as we navigate ongoing policy priorities, including skills shortages. The transition to zero and low emission vehicles will also present new opportunities for the industry but we must ensure that this transition does not adversely affect local businesses. The MTA will stand shoulder to shoulder with industry in this regard, whether it’s advocating to all levels of government on your behalf or helping your business prepare to sell, service and repair new vehicles.

While I have already met a number of Government Ministers and members of parliament, their staff and key stakeholders, I look forward to continual engagement and open and honest conversations that can strengthen both the Automotive Industry and South Australia. For members, I am committed to making sure you have access to the very best workplace relations services. Most MTA members have been with us for more than ten years and may not have called upon our expertise to assist them, but they know that the MTA will always be there should an issue arise. In my view having this confidence and peace of mind remains essential.

Over the coming months I look forward to engaging with as many members as I can. As an association we are only as strong as our membership. This includes our MTA Board, Industry Advisory Council and Chairs of each Divisions and Zones. My door is always open as we strive together to develop the MTA to be the best automotive skills, careers and service provider.