Cochrane’s appointment follows a rapid ascent within the company. He initially joined the firm as chief financial officer in August 2024 before taking the interim helm following Paul Antony’s decision to transition out of his role as executive chair. While Cochrane assumes the top job permanently, he will continue to serve as the interim CFO until a successor is identified.

Focus on Operational Stability

The board of directors tasked Cochrane with a mandate to tighten internal controls and refine the company’s dealership performance. According to Board Chair Christopher Harris, the leadership team is betting on Cochrane’s ability to build momentum within the firm’s collision business while conducting a comprehensive performance assessment across the entire organization.

Cochrane brings a background in financial management from several high-profile sectors. Before joining AutoCanada, he held senior leadership and finance roles at several major corporations, including:

• Sierra Wireless
• Motorola Solutions
• AtkinsRealis (formerly SNC-Lavalin)