Avanti gets new driver of its auto business

Mike Down joins Avanti Finance from ORIX New Zealand, following roles as general manager fleet services with John Andrew Ford and Mazda and general manager relationship management and customer services with FleetPartners. He also has extensive experience working in banking and investments both in New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

Down says he’s looking forward to joining the Avanti Finance team. “This is an exciting opportunity for me to join an already successful team. Avanti Finance has some ambitious plans, and I can’t wait to help them come to fruition.”

Avanti chief executive Mark Mountcastle said in a statement: “Mike’s depth of experience in the vehicle industry sees him as the right candidate to lead our team forward.”

“Mike has extensive experience in sales and is a strong leader who takes a coaching approach as he creates high-performing teams,” Mountcastle says.