In a move that underscores its commitment to strong leadership and transformative progress, Dunlop Tyres South Africa has appointed Ms. Thuli Gasa as Head of Corporate Services, joining the company’s Executive Committee. With a mandate that spans risk management, internal auditing, BBBEE transformation, business continuity, health and safety, environmental sustainability, and more, Gasa’s new role places her at the heart of the company’s strategic future.
This landmark appointment has been celebrated by Dunlop CEO, Lubin Ozoux, who remarked:
“We are extremely excited to announce Thuli’s appointment. She has been an invaluable member of the Dunlop team for many years, driving excellence in her roles as Original Equipment Quality Auditor, Associate Risk Manager and Strategic Initiatives Manager. We are fully confident that, empowered in this new role, she will continue to lead with exceptional dedication and professionalism to support Dunlop’s growth.”
A Career Built on Purpose
Gasa’s journey is not only one of corporate achievement but also a deeply personal story of purpose and perseverance. Born and raised in uMnambithi (formerly Ladysmith), a region where Dunlop plays a pivotal economic role, Gasa joined the company in 2016. Her first role was as a Quality Auditor for Original Equipment (OE) Manufacturers, ensuring Dunlop tyres met the highest technical standards. Her ability to connect across departments, from the factory floor to executive leadership, quickly distinguished her as a rising star.
Now, as Head of Corporate Services, Gasa leads a team including two internal audit managers and an HSE manager. Her remit is broad and business-critical. She is tasked with reinforcing internal controls in high-risk processes, ensuring alignment in health and safety protocols, improving sustainability, and managing essential utilities such as water and energy. Equally important is her role in championing broad-based black economic empowerment (BBBEE) across the company.
Leadership from the Ground Up
Gasa brings to the executive suite an understanding that is both strategic and grounded in lived experience.
“In this role, I will continue to build on my previous functions, communicating between the different levels in the company, bringing insights from the factory floor to strategic decision-making,” she explained. “It’s important to me to ensure that we work as one organisation, focused on proactively managing risks and delivering the best quality product for South Africans.”
A Role Model for the Next Generation
Beyond her professional credentials, Gasa is driven by a deeper sense of responsibility. Coming from a town where job opportunities are limited, she sees her role not just as a personal milestone but as a beacon for others—especially young women looking to carve out their place in the world.
“Coming from Ladysmith, a little town in northern KZN, where there aren’t many major employers, Dunlop’s presence is extremely important for the town’s success. That’s why my role is very important to me – not only do I hope to show that hard work pays off and you can reach your goals, but I also aim to make a difference to my community and be an inspiration to the next generation.”
She adds, “We often hear people say, ‘life is not fair.’ We need to look beyond unfairness to find opportunities available for learning and self-development.”
An Inspiring Future
Gasa’s appointment is a testament to the value of nurturing internal talent and promoting from within. It also reflects Dunlop Tyres SA’s broader commitment to inclusive leadership, community upliftment, and operational excellence. As she takes on this new chapter, Thuli Gasa embodies what it means to lead with purpose, bridging the past, present, and future of one of South Africa’s most iconic industrial brands.
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