THE boss of go-ahead caravan manufacturer New Age Caravans has scooped
the industry's coveted Future Leaders Award.
Managing director of the Victoria-based company Gabby Montagnese beat five
other finalists to be handed the prestigious gong at the Caravan Industry
Association of Australia national conference on the Gold Coast.
The other finalists were Danella Mitchell (FreeSpirit Resorts), Michael
McIvor (Broken Hill Caravan Park), Scott Jones (Jayco), Justine Schuller (Dometic)
and Shane Fagan (CUB Campers).
Gabby told Caravanning News after receiving her award that the
industry was at a cross roads, needed change, governance, compliance and
more controls.
"We need to lift confidence as a unified industry to ensure we remain
sustainable and continue to see growth," she said.
"We need to be working together to do this. We need to have courage.
"Customers today demand more, they deserve better service, backed warranty
and they align with reputable brands. As an industry this should be
enforced through best practices."
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Gabby Montagnese |
Gabby has been at the helm of New Age, which now produces around 1200
caravans annually, since its inception in 2009.
Coming from a supplier background and frustrated with what she saw was on
offer in caravans, Gabby firmly planted herself as an industry leader
in caravan manufacturing.
Concentrating on a keen interest in consumer trends backed by very clear
business systems, she continues to test and innovate so she can be recognised as an industry leader and drive industry behaviour through
success.
An incredible personal story showcases the structured approach to her
thinking, and her ability to manage work and life balance with the
pressures of a fast growing business in a highly competitive sector is
simply inspirational.
Gabby's confidence and understanding of industry issues "blew away the
judges" at the finals interview.
They were also impressed with her willingness to not only be successful
but contribute to the broader industry framework.
Caravan Industry Association of Australia said the whole process had been
incredibly humbling, with all finalists worthy representatives who would
hopefully go on to play a more significant role in both state and national
activities and feature heavily in decision making committees and boards
into the future.
"If this is the quality of future decision makers on behalf of our
industry, then the industry is in very good stead," chairman Mark Lindsay
said.
"The understanding of issues and a fresh look at solutions coupled with
the enthusiasm and passion exhibited by these individuals is a lesson in
why the future leaders of our industry should be encouraged and provided a
pathway so that their voices are heard in the decision making tables
around the country."
As the winner of the 2016 Future Leaders Award, Gabby receives a $15,000
scholarship for professional development.
The other finalists received an advertising package and a $1000
professional development scholarship.
