Gun footballer turned caravan sales guru Jake King has been recruited by Melbourne-based JB Group as the new head of its expanding nationwide dealer network.
The 40-year old, ex-AFL star has been the General Manager of The Touring Hub since 2023, overseeing sales of Urban and Essential caravans, as well as New Age Caravans which was fully acquired by the JB Group in late-2024.
Before that King spent time in a tattoo business, and played for a number of years as a small forward for the Richmond AFL side, before hanging up his boots in 2014. During that period he collected the nickname 'The Push Up' after reportedly pumping out 300-plus push-ups in a challenge during a pre-season training camp.
In his new role as Head of JB Retail, King will report directly to JB Group CEO Chris Polites, and oversee a number of JB-owned dealerships around the country including the just-opened state-of-the-art flagship showroom and service facility in Pakenham, Victoria.
The JB Group is currently one of the biggest builders and sellers of caravans and motorhomes in the country, after recently adding the Traveller, Paradise and New Age brands to its core JB Caravans' business.
Meanwhile, experienced RV salesperson Rob Grossman, who joined JB Caravans as National Sales Manager in early-2024 after a long stint as the National Dealer Manager at Sydney's Cub Campers, will continue to focus on driving sales at shows, with a new title of JB Group Sales Manager.
JB Group Director Sharon Xue said the appointment of Jake King reinforced the JB Group's commitment to continue to grow and invest in the industry.
"Having Jake join the team will help us continue to deliver great service to our customers and is another piece in the strong foundation we’re building for the future," she said.
JB Group CEO Chris Polites said he was thrilled to have King officially join the team after working closely with him for many years.
"We already have a strong retail presence, and Jake’s expertise will further enhance our ability to deliver exceptional customer service for JB Group owners," he said.