ZT Corporate Appoints Zeeshan Shaikh as Operating Partner of ZT Motors

ZT Corporate, a private equity firm specializing in healthcare and automotive investments, has announced the appointment of Zeeshan Shaikh as Operating Partner. In this role, Shaikh will lead ZT Motors, the automotive portfolio entity, as it undergoes transformative changes to revolutionize the industry through next-generation technologies and operational efficiencies. With nearly 14 years of experience in the auto industry, Shaikh brings expertise in audit, finance, operations, and compliance from his time at Group 1 Automotive.

“We’re entering an exciting new era for ZT Motors, and Zeeshan joining our team is crucial to our strategy,” said Taseer Badar, Chairman and CEO of ZT Corporate and CEO of ZT Motors. “I will be actively involved in our automotive business plan alongside Zeeshan. He will play a vital role in aligning our nine dealerships across Texas, Florida, and Georgia, implementing new technologies, driving operational excellence and efficiencies, and identifying opportunities for expansion that create value for our investors.”

As the Operating Partner of ZT Corporate's automotive portfolio entity, Zeeshan Shaikh is focused on bringing together people and processes to create a sophisticated automotive portfolio that leads the industry. ZT Motors is gearing up for a dynamic period of growth, digital transformation, and operational enhancements across its dealership footprint.

Prior to joining ZT Corporate, Shaikh successfully launched a startup that provided a digital platform to enhance relationships and loyalty between automotive retailers and their customers. He also served as Manager of Pre-Owned Operations and F&I Compliance at Group 1 Automotive, where he developed pre-owned operations and processes, launched the Val-U-Line project, built an internal online buying center, implemented a new transportation infrastructure, developed a pre-owned vehicle pricing platform, enhanced technologies and processes, and managed audit functions in the UK and Brazil operations. Shaikh has also held positions at PKF Texas, Chicago Bridge & Iron, and IBM Global Process Services.

Earlier this year, ZT Corporate executed a major liquidity event for its investors through a strategic management buyout of ZT Motors, generating significant returns despite adverse market conditions and industry challenges. Under the new ownership of Taseer Badar, leadership restructuring is underway, and a major rebranding of ZT Motors is expected in the coming months.

About ZT Motors

Founded in 2015, ZT Motors has rapidly become one of the fastest-growing verticals within ZT Corporate's portfolio. The company operates automotive dealerships in Texas, Florida, and Georgia, representing top brands such as Toyota, BMW, Chevrolet, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Ford, GMC, Buick, and Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. ZT Motors was recognized as one of the top 150 auto groups in the nation in 2023.

About ZT Corporate

Established in 1997, ZT Corporate is a private equity firm headquartered in Houston, with offices in New York and Los Angeles. The firm focuses on healthcare and auto dealerships as core investment verticals. ZT Corporate collaborates closely with its operators to support the day-to-day operations of the portfolio investments, driving value creation through stronger operator-investor relationships, cross-functional expertise, and a deep understanding of the target industries. With over 60+ completed investments and multiple liquidity events, ZT Corporate provides full-service wealth management services and creates value through various financial channels. For more information, visit www.ztcorporate.com.

In conclusion, the appointment of Zeeshan Shaikh as Operating Partner of ZT Motors signifies an important milestone in the company's journey towards innovation and growth. With his industry expertise and leadership capabilities, Shaikh will play a crucial role in driving ZT Motors to new heights, paving the way for a dynamic future in the automotive industry.