PPG has reported the sudden passing of Duncan McDonnell, National Sales Manager Refinish Australia PPG Brands.
Described by PPG as a “father, partner, colleague, mentor and friend”, the company said the most enjoyable aspect of Duncan’s career was the interaction he had with people.
“He was a rare individual who had a passion for bringing out the best in the people around him and he left a positive impact in his wake wherever he went,” said PPG.
Duncan McDonnell joined the company in March 2006 as Refinish National Sales Manager in his native New Zealand. In April 2009 he was appointed PPG General Industrial National Sales Manager before crossing the Tasman in April 2012 to take on the high-profile role of National Sales Manager Refinish Australia PPG Brands. As part of this role, Duncan looked after a team of more than 80 people around Australia and believed his team was the best in the business.
PPG says his positive influence was felt at every level – whether it was chatting to a customer about their needs, providing guidance and support to a team member on the other side of the country, offering career mentoring or a shoulder to lean on in hard times, or simply checking up on ‘how the family is going’.
Along with his knowledge and professionalism, PPG says Duncan was well known for his fun, cheeky and mischievous side which was legendary for keeping spirits high. One of his passions was Supercars, and in recent years he was the face of PPG’s hospitality programme at each event.
“All the Supercars teams knew and respected Duncan,” the company added. “He was also a natural in the role of master of ceremonies, particularly at the final of the PPG National Colour Matching Competition where he put nervous apprentices at ease during the presentation evening.”
Paul Galea, PPG General Manager Refinish ANZ, said Duncan left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
“For many years Duncan has been a much-loved part of the PPG family and I feel honoured and blessed to have known and worked with him,” said Galea. “His selfless approach to life and focus on helping others to achieve their goals has made a profound contribution. Duncan touched so many of us in so many ways and he leaves us with long lasting memories that we will all cherish!”
The team at BodyShop News joins PPG in extending our deepest sympathies to Duncan’s family, friends and colleagues.