Harris Group restructures management team as part of major growth drive

The commercial vehicle distributor said the management restructuring is part of wider plans to position the business for its next growth phase across Ireland, the UK and international markets.

The company also pledged that the restructuring will reinforce Harris Group’s commitment to its dual-energy strategy, with continued investment in both ICE and fully electric vehicle solutions as customer and market requirements continue to evolve.

Founded almost 60 years ago by Robert ‘Pino’ Harris, Harris Group has grown from a family business into a major player in the commercial vehicle industry. The company is set to celebrate its 60th anniversary later this year. 

Harris Group said Denise Harris, in her new role as executive chairperson and as owner of Harris Group, will continue to support Patterson in leading the long-term strategic direction of the business, while remaining a “highly visible and influential figure” across the organisation, its partners and the wider industry.

Her experience, industry knowledge and long-term vision will continue to be instrumental as Harris Group enters its next chapter of growth, the company added..

Commenting on the restructuring, Harris said, “The past six decades have been an incredible and thrilling journey, and this announcement feels like an important moment for us as we begin a new chapter for Harris Group.

“We have built a strong business with exceptional people across every part of the organisation, supported by highly experienced leadership teams and long-standing partners. I am incredibly proud of what has been achieved to date and excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. 

“My late husband, Pino, built this business from the ground up with ambition, resilience and an unwavering commitment to customers and partnerships. Protecting and growing that legacy for future generations remains incredibly important to us. 

“Brian Patterson has played a major role in strengthening the Group and positioning the business for future growth, and I look forward to continuing to work closely with him as we move into this next phase together.”

Patterson takes on the role of CEO following his term as group managing director, during which Harris Group strengthened its operational platform, expanded its market presence and advanced several strategic growth initiatives across the organisation. 

With extensive experience across the automotive and commercial vehicle sectors at senior leadership level, Patterson has also played a key role in establishing the foundations required to support the Group’s next stage of expansion, including the onboarding of new brands and international partnerships. 

As CEO, Patterson will lead the day-to-day operations of the Group while driving the execution of Harris Group’s long-term strategic growth plans. 

He said, “Harris Group is entering an exciting new phase of its evolution. We have built a strong, agile and scalable organisation with outstanding people across the business, and that gives us a tremendous platform for future growth. 

“The opportunities ahead for Harris Group are significant across new markets, new technologies, expanded commercial vehicle solutions and future brand partnerships throughout the truck, van, bus and plant sectors.

“We are exceptionally well-positioned to build on the momentum already created and continue driving the business forward.”

The Harris Group has its headquarters in Dublin. It imports and distributes commercial vehicles and specialises in sales, distribution, and EV-focused training for the construction, logistics, and mass transportation industries across the UK and Ireland, representing global brands including Maxus, Hino, and Isuzu.