Managing director of Simon's National Carriers to become new ATA chairman after Trevor Martyn chooses to stand aside
By Brad Gardner | March 4, 2010
The managing director of Simon’s National Carriers is set to become the new chairman of the nation’s peak trucking lobby later this month.
Documents obtained by ATN say current Australian Trucking Association (ATA) Chairman Trevor Martyn has chosen not to stand for re-election at the group’s annual general meeting on March 24.
Martyn was appointed chairman after Ross Fraser’s tenure ended in 2006.
“Trevor Martyn has indicated he will not be seeking a third term as chairman,” an email sent from the ATA to its council members says.
“David Simon has indicated he will be seeking nomination for the position of chairman.”
Simon declined to comment when contacted by ATN, but one industry source close to the process says his industry and business experience means he will have a close understanding of issues facing operators.
However the source goes on to claim Simon’s ascension had been “stitched up” for some time.
“There no point even challenging…No-one gets on [the board] that they don’t want there,” the source says of the ATA’s board members.
Bunker Freight Lines General Manager Kathy Williams is also standing for re-election as the ATA’s treasurer, alongside directors Denis Robertson, Mike Almond and Mark Sullivan.
Fraser’s role as a director also expires at the AGM, but the email sent by the ATA says he will not stand for re-election.
The ATA’s Communications and Government Relations Manager Bill McKinley declined to comment on the upcoming meeting or whether a deal was made for Simon to replace Martyn.
“I wouldn’t know, that’s a matter for the board,” McKinley says.
Before joining the ATA, Martyn spent 31 years as the managing director of FBT Operations, a specialist in the transport and storage of dangerous goods, bulk and packaged goods. The business was sold in 2005.
Martyn also served as the president of the Victorian Transport Association from 2001 to 2005.