We’re excited to welcome two familiar and highly respected faces to The Car Company team. Taylor Dowell and Xavier Kirby both bring strong automotive experience, a genuine passion for people, and deep connections to the Nelson region. Their knowledge, energy, and customer-first approach make them a valuable addition to our team, and we’re proud to have them on board as we continue to grow and support our local community.
Get to know the new team members below.
Taylor Dowell
Born and bred in Nelson, Taylor has been immersed in the automotive industry from a young age. After starting his career in panelbeating straight out of school, he moved into automotive sales in 2018. With a strong family connection to the industry—his father having over 35 years in automotive sales—Taylor grew up around dealerships and developed a genuine passion for cars and customer service early on. He thrives in the fast-paced sales environment and enjoys building long-term relationships with clients from all walks of life. Outside of work, Taylor enjoys golf, watching sport, and spending time with family.
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If you weren’t working in the automotive industry, what would you be doing? I think it would have to be something hands-on, I've never really thought about it though as the automotive industry has always been a passion of mine. If push came to shove I'd probably go roofing with one of the boys. Would be a good job in the summer i think 😂
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What's your road trip playlist looking like (artists / genre)? I don't discriminate when it comes to music, I have a pretty wide taste but 90s music like Pearl Jam, Alice in Chains etc. is probably my go to. A bit of Sabrina Carpenter for a guilty pleasure 😂
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One thing most people don’t know about you: I have an incredible re-call of Speights bottle top questions.
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Best piece of career advice you’ve ever received: I think it's actually a Henry Ford quote but something that I like to live by. "If you always do what you've always done then you'll always get what you've always got". I guess it's the importance of trying new ways to do or look at things in order to get better results. Can't expect a different outcome if you're always putting in the same ingredients.
Xavier Kirby
With over 11 years in the automotive industry, Xavier brings deep experience across multiple dealership roles. He began his career as a sales cadet with MS Motors, spent time in F&I, and later joined The Car Company in both processing and sales roles at the Rutherford Street site. Most recently, Xavier worked with Turners in Wellington specialising in vehicle purchasing. Known for his genuine interest in people and ability to connect easily with customers, Xavier is excited to be back in Nelson and re-join The Car Company’s high-performing, supportive team.
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If you weren’t working in the automotive industry, what would you be doing? I've tried - nothing compares for me... Marry rich and go fishing?
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What's your road trip playlist looking like (artists / genre)? Lots of country, Grunge, 80's rock, Rap - I'll listen to any and everything
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One thing most people don’t know about you: I watch The Greatest Showman at least once a month. Outstanding cinema
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Best piece of career advice you’ve ever received: Your attitude determines your altitude - as true mentally, as it is in aviation.
Taylor will be based out of out BYD Nelson and The Car Company Premium Used branch at 150 Rutherford STreet and Xavier will be based at Head Office, 202 Rutherford Street!