Bouchaib Najioullah, the former chief executive of Auto Hall and one of the people who helped build the country’s modern automotive industry, has died, the company has announced. He led Auto Hall for 23 years, from 1977 to 2000, during a period of rapid growth and major change. He also helped found the Association of Vehicle Importers in Morocco (AIVAM), where he became its first president.
Auto Hall’s Board of Directors, executive management and employees offered their condolences to his family and loved ones.
During his time as chief executive, Auto Hall expanded its partnerships with international carmakers, including Japanese manufacturer Mitsubishi in 1985. The company also grew its network of branches across the country.
In 1999, Auto Hall completed a major restructuring, bringing its different subsidiaries together under one group.
The company said Najioullah was known for his competence, discretion and loyalty.
His influence extended beyond Auto Hall.
He was among the founders of AIVAM in the late 1980s. As its first president, he helped organise the formal market for new vehicle imports and distribution, bring together companies in the sector and build lasting dialogue with public authorities.
Today, AIVAM represents almost the entire formal new vehicle market in the country and remains the main industry body working with the government on automotive issues.
Karim Ghellab, chairman of Auto Hall’s Board of Directors, paid tribute to Najioullah.
“He was a man of integrity and vision. His career will remain a source of inspiration for future generations of business leaders,” he said.
People who worked with Najioullah described him as a principled leader who spoke openly, listened carefully before making decisions and remained committed to the country’s economic development.
Auto Hall said his work helped shape both the company and the wider automotive industry.
