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With over 44 years of experience in manufacturing—33 of those specifically in transport equipment—Alan Griffiths brings a wealth of industry knowledge and leadership to his role at BTE, which he joined in 2014. His career began as an apprentice fitter, machinist, and toolmaker at Repco, and he quickly progressed into management roles, becoming Production Manager at Coonara Wood heaters at just 26.
In 1991, he led there location of their manufacturing operations to the Freighter factory in Ballarat, where he later became Manufacturing Manager. Following the acquisition of Freighter by Maxitrans, he served as General Manager before relocating to Melbourne to take on a similar role at Hamelex White. Throughout his career, Alan has held senior leadership positions across major Australian manufacturing businesses, gaining deep expertise in both operational performance and team development.
His vision for BTE is to deliver trailers that lead the market in quality, reliability, and value—offering customers durable products made from the best available materials, backed by features like a five-year chassis warranty. He is a strong believer in doing the right thing, even when no one is watching, and in holding himself and his team accountable. With an MBA and several industry-specific qualifications in fitting, machining, toolmaking, hydraulics, and welding, Alan leads with both technical insight and a people-first mindset.
What he enjoys most about his role is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact—both in shaping the direction of the industry and in the lives of those he works with. Alan takes great pride in seeing BTE products on the road, knowing the hard work and teamwork behind every build. Outside of work, he enjoys bike riding and spending time with his two beloved grandsons.
With a career spanning over four decades in the heavy transport industry, Gian Panozzo co-founded Bulk Transport Equipment (BTE) in 2006 alongside Andrew Nicholls, officially launching operations in early 2007. Since its inception, he has played a hands-on leadership role on the workshop floor, overseeing everything from minor repairs to the final fit-out and delivery of complex, multi-unit combinations.
Before establishing BTE, Gian built a solid foundation in the industry, beginning with an apprenticeship in heavy transport vehicle repair in the 1980s. He gained experience across multiple roles including service management, equipment sales, and workshop operations with respected companies such as Recar, Frankton Body Works, Hamelex, HamelexWhite, and MaxiTrans.
His proudest achievement is the continued growth and reputation of BTE as a leader in quality and innovation within the bulk transport sector. Driven by the belief that “the harder you work, the luckier you become,” he values working behind the scenes—collaborating with staff, suppliers, and customers alike.
Away from the workshop, Gian enjoys restoring old cars and spending time outdoors. His vision remains clear: to position BTE as a trusted leader in the transport industry, known for its design innovation and commitment to excellence.
Peter joined BTE in December 2018 and currently manages sales of tippers and hook loaders across eastern Victoria and southern New South Wales. His career began with a trade apprenticeship in fitting and machining at PWB Chains in Bundoora, followed by over a decade at Tieman Industries in heavy engineering, where he transitioned from field service into a sales role.
Over the years, Peter has held various leadership positions within the transport and heavy engineering sectors, including General Manager of a business manufacturing waste compaction equipment for the recycling industry, and National Fleet Manager at Maxitrans. His experience also includes national fleet sales at SAF Holland before moving to his current role at BTE.
Peter’s vision is to continue growing the business by delivering industry-leading products and service. He takes pride in working alongside a team that shares a strong commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. A guiding principle throughout his career has been: “The standard you walk past is the standard you accept.” He believes in maintaining high standards, taking ownership of mistakes, and continuously learning.
Outside of work, Peter enjoys camping and fishing, and values time spent with his wife, three children, and grandson.
Joining BTE in January 2007, Jarrod has grown with the business from the ground up. With a background that began in hands-on roles — from sweeping floors at his father’s workplace to early work at McDonald's — his journey reflects a deep-rooted work ethic and a drive to lead by doing.
As Production Manager, he is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the manufacturing floor, ensuring production targets are met while maintaining the high-quality standards BTE is known for. He places a strong focus on efficiency and continuous improvement, believing that both are critical to the future of Australian manufacturing.
What Jarrod enjoys most about his role is the variety and daily challenges, keeping every week dynamic and rewarding. His leadership is grounded in a firm belief: “Back your own judgment. You’ll learn far more from making your own calls — right or wrong — than from following the crowd.”
Outside of work, you’ll find him outdoors — enjoying a round of golf, camping with his daughters, or catching as much football as possible.
Leroy joined the company on July 1st, 2014, and his current role covers purchasing, aftersales (spare parts and service), logistics, and warranty administration. Leroy’s background is in communication design, and he got his start in the industry at BTE while still studying.
Before that, Leroy also worked in manufacturing, food production, and hospitality, which gave him a solid foundation in both manual work and customer service. His vision is to help create products that exceed today’s standards and customer expectations, backed by timely service, parts, and information.
What Leroy enjoys most about his role is the variety—it can range from negotiating with vendors to assisting customers or managing factory operations. Personally, he believes in trusting others’ good intentions and supporting their growth through patience and understanding.
Outside of work, Leroy enjoys spending time with his beautiful family, especially through fishing, camping, and cooking outdoors.