Cuthbert Stewart is delighted to announce its next major phase of growth with strategic leadership changes and expanded group alignment.
After more than 75 years of delivering trusted electrical and automation solutions with deep technical expertise, CSL is entering an exciting new phase that will reinforce its position as a leading distributor of world-class technology and innovation to New Zealand industry.
The business is taking a considered step forward, alongside Australian group company APS Industrial, to further enhance customer experience and unlock new opportunities across New Zealand and Australia.
Elliott takes group leadership role
As part of this progression, long-term CSL Managing Director and CEO, Phil Elliott has taken on a new group-wide role as Director of Technologies & Brands, working across both CSL and APS Industrial.
Based in New Zealand, Elliott commences in this new role on 1 July 2026 and will remain closely connected to customers and partners in New Zealand, including through his continuing position on the CSL Board.
After 28 years with the company, including 16 as Managing Director, this move reflects both Elliott’s significant contribution to CSL and the opportunity to extend that impact across the broader trans-Tasman business.
“CSL has continually evolved to meet the needs of our customers and the changing demands of industry. This next step allows us to build on that momentum and bring even greater alignment across the group. Customers and partners will enjoy an expansion of our technology portfolio and more seamless access to the very best solutions and innovations that the world has to offer,” says Elliott.
In his new role, Elliott will lead product and technology strategy, supplier and brand relationships and product-related marketing across both CSL and APS Industrial. This will create a more coordinated and accessible approach across the group, while strengthening engagement with global technology partners.
“By aligning our capabilities and reducing duplication, we’re bringing together the best of both businesses. We can deliver a more seamless, responsive experience for our customers and partners, while opening the door to new opportunities and value,” he says.
Kampschreur delivers continuity
Stepping into the role of Chief Executive Officer at CSL is Jorg Kampschreur, whose appointment reflects the company’s long-term, deliberate approach to succession, growth and consistent customer experience.
Kampschreur joined CSL as Commercial Manager in 2023 before progressing to General Manager – Industry, where he has played a pivotal role in driving performance and strengthening the company’s market position.
Phil Elliott says Jorg’s appointment is a natural next step for CSL and validates the company’s emphasis on stewarding the best talent NZ has to offer.
“We’ve been intentional about building leadership capability within the business, and Jorg’s progression is a strong reflection of that. He understands our customers, partners and how to deliver the exciting opportunities ahead.”
Under this strengthened leadership structure, CSL and APS Industrial are well positioned to accelerate growth in key areas where demand for advanced technology continues to rise, such as electrification, data centres and renewable energy.
Industry-wide advantages
The closer alignment across the group will also unlock tangible benefits for customers and partners, including:
- Access to a broader, more integrated portfolio of leading global technology brands
- Enhanced technical support and expanded automation expertise across the group
- Stronger supplier relationships and faster access to emerging innovation
- Greater consistency and efficiency in service delivery across New Zealand and Australia
The group is already showcasing examples of this with the introduction of advanced solutions for specialised industrial and renewable applications, as well as continued investment in critical infrastructure technologies.
Long-term CSL Board Chair, Judith Stewart says the changes represent a deliberate and positive evolution of the business.
“We’re aligning our people, capabilities and expertise to better support our customers and partners through leveraging the full strength of the group, while remaining focused on the unique needs of the New Zealand market. At its core, this is about being more connected, more capable and more responsive,” she says.
Business as usual, but better
Importantly, CSL’s day-to-day operations, relationships and commitment to service will remain unchanged, with customers and partners enjoying the same trusted relationships, high level of service, and commitment to quality.
Jorg Kampschreur says that the focus remains on delivering world-class technology and deeper collaboration with the industry as it moves into a new era of electrification and innovation.
“CSL is perfectly poised to lead the next wave of industrial transformation, and we’re committed to ensuring that our customers and partners are ready for it by delivering best-in-class technology, support and expertise at every opportunity.”
Cuthbert Stewart welcomes and encourages contact with anyone associated with delivering excellence to New Zealand industry. If you are interested in being part of this exciting journey and shaping the future of our country on the world stage then get in touch and come and see the exciting opportunities first-hand.
