Daniel Whitehead, President and CEO of Daimler Truck Australia Pacific, has announced his departure from the company at the end of 2026, concluding a remarkable 30-year tenure with Daimler Truck and Mercedes-Benz.

Whitehead's three decades with the company have been defined by significant achievements and industry leadership. His role at Daimler Truck Australia Pacific spans 12 years, complemented by a decade of experience in China. During his tenure, he has overseen substantial growth for the company, which currently holds the position of the number two truck manufacturer in Australia, managing the Mercedes-Benz, Fuso, and Freightliner brands.

Under Whitehead's guidance, Daimler Truck achieved several landmark milestones that shaped the Australian automotive landscape. Notable achievements include overseeing the introduction of the new generation Actros in 2016, launching the heavy-duty Fuso Shogun in 2019, and bringing the all-new Freightliner Cascadia to market in 2020. Most significantly, Whitehead spearheaded the company's transition into electric vehicles, ushering in a new era beginning in 2021 with the introduction of the Fuso eCanter, Mercedes-Benz eActros, and eEconic models.

As a trailblazer in sustainable transport, Whitehead ensured that Daimler Truck was the first manufacturer to introduce an electric truck in Australia. Additionally, he established Daimler Truck's reputation for introducing vehicles with advanced safety features and low-emission engines ahead of competitors and regulatory requirements. 

Reflecting on his career, Whitehead expressed profound gratitude for his time with the organization. "I have enjoyed every minute of my 30-year career with this remarkable company," he stated, acknowledging the tremendous personal and professional opportunities the role has provided.

Beyond his executive position, Whitehead continues to serve on the board of the Heavy Vehicle Industry Association (HVIA), demonstrating his ongoing commitment to the transport sector. 

Whitehead's departure concludes a transformational period for Daimler Truck Australia Pacific, during which the company solidified its market position and championed innovation in electric vehicle technology across the Australian commercial transport industry.