Johannesburg, South Africa – 11 September 2024 – With the ever-growing presence of new and returning vehicle brands in South Africa, the demand for skilled personnel in automotive retail dealerships has reached a critical level. To address this need, the Future Dealership Development Programme (FDDP) has emerged as a groundbreaking initiative designed to equip aspiring women entrepreneurs with the leadership skills needed to thrive in this dynamic sector.
This four-month leadership programme, developed through a partnership between the Institute for the Future of Work (IFOW) at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), the Automotive Industry Transformation Fund (AITF), and naamsa | The Automotive Business Council, places a special focus on empowering women to take on key leadership roles within the automotive retail sector.
Building the Future of Automotive Retail
The FDDP aims to arm participants with a comprehensive understanding of the dealership ecosystem, spanning strategic management, the impact of advancing vehicle technology, and the importance of customer relationship management. The curriculum, which is delivered over five carefully designed modules, blends in-person sessions, online learning, and self-directed study. Participants are immersed in the key challenges and opportunities within the industry, with the goal of fostering a new generation of leaders.
A key feature of the programme is its hybrid learning model, offering participants flexibility while ensuring they gain practical, real-world experience. Through job shadowing at various dealerships across South Africa, participants get hands-on exposure to the daily workings of dealership operations, allowing them to transition seamlessly into leadership roles.
Addressing the Skills Shortage in Automotive Retail
The shortage of skilled professionals in South Africa’s automotive retail sector mirrors a global trend. Simon King from the Institute of the Motor Industry in the UK noted that rapid advances in vehicle technology, particularly the shift towards electric vehicles, have created an urgent need for skilled personnel. “The skills shortage is not just a long-term issue but has immediate repercussions on business operations, customer satisfaction, and the overall standing of the industry,” King stated.
By incorporating hands-on training, the FDDP directly addresses this gap, allowing participants to gain valuable insights into the inner workings of dealerships while providing dealerships themselves with the opportunity to evaluate potential future employees.
Transformative Impact of the Programme
The first cohort of 20 women graduated from the FDDP this month, marking a milestone in the transformation of South Africa’s automotive retail industry. “The graduation of these women reflects the transformative power of education and empowerment,” said Jan Schoeman, Joint-CEO of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI).
Among the dealerships participating in the job shadowing programme is Motus Toyota Bryanston, which hosted five candidates. Dealer Principal Ashley Gengiah highlighted the benefits of the programme, recalling his own experience in a similar initiative: “Job shadowing is not as forthcoming in our environment as it should be. I jumped at the opportunity because I recognise the value of practical exposure in shaping future leaders.”
Gengiah designed a rotational programme where participants experience each department—New Vehicles, Used Vehicles, Parts, and Service—offering a holistic view of dealership operations. This collaborative approach, he believes, is vital in shaping well-rounded leaders who understand all aspects of the business.
Fostering a Diverse Future for Automotive Retail
The FDDP has been hailed as a catalyst for change in the automotive industry, particularly in fostering diversity and inclusivity. “The first cohort of participants has set a benchmark for future programmes,” said Dr. Unéné Gregory, IFOW Project Leader at TUT.
By bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, the programme equips participants with the skills they need to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of automotive retail. “We are ensuring that the next generation of automotive professionals is well-prepared for the challenges ahead,” added Schoeman of the RMI.
Paving the Way for Future Leaders
Brandon Cohen, Chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA), underscored the importance of developing future leaders in the sector. “We need a diverse range of people in our training and empowerment pipelines to grow into management positions in dealership networks. Dealerships are dynamic, cutting-edge environments where a variety of transferable skills can be developed,” Cohen said.
Several dealerships, including BMW West Rand and Hatfield Motor Group, have actively participated in the FDDP’s mentorship component. The first delegate completed their mentorship in August under the guidance of BMW West Rand’s Dealer Principal, Dion Coulentianos, while Hatfield Motor Group is in the process of placing three delegates across their dealerships.
The Road Ahead for FDDP Graduates
As the FDDP continues to grow, it is expected to leave a lasting impact on the South African automotive industry, particularly in increasing the representation of women in leadership positions. With the support of key industry players like NADA, naamsa, and the AITF, the programme is paving the way for a new era in automotive retail—one that is inclusive, dynamic, and ready to embrace the future.
“These FDDP candidates are ideally positioned to explore the diverse career paths within the automotive retail sector,” concluded Cohen, highlighting the limitless opportunities available for those who wish to pursue a career in this fast-paced industry.
As South Africa continues to position itself as a hub for automotive innovation and growth, the Future Dealership Development Programme stands as a beacon of hope and progress, ensuring that the industry’s future leaders are equipped with the skills and vision to lead with confidence.
