For Vusi Mbatha, the power to create a better future is contained within the present moment.
“The quote comes from Eckhart Tolle, an author I find really inspirational, and is a powerful reminder that future success doesn’t just happen – it requires planning, hard work and action now,” said Vusi, Ford South Africa’s retail strategy manager.
Vusi joined Ford in April 2018 and now works with dealerships throughout South Africa to upgrade showrooms, transform the customer experience and provide the best possible service to customers.
And while improving the retail customer experience is vital, Vusi said it’s as important to listen our dealers.
“That’s why I care about the dealer sentiment, which reflects how our dealers feel about Ford and their business,” he said. “Historically, there was no strategy to address dealer sentiment, and many dealers felt frustrated, ignored or undervalued by Ford.”
So, in 2023, he organized a workshop for the dealer council and other dealer partners and Ford executives and managers. The purpose of the workshop was to candidly discuss dealer sentiment results and brainstorm ideas on how to improve the dealer-Ford relationship, dealer profitability and dealer support.
In addition to being a strong supporter of Ford dealers, Vusi also is a powerful advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).
“I’m a living testament to it,” he said. “Growing up in a society rich with diversity, yet fraught with inequality, I’ve always understood the power of representation and the importance of making every voice heard. My personal journey fuels my passion for DEI and drives me to ensure that everyone gets a fair shot at success.”
He works on programs such as YES (Youth Employment Service) Program and the MDP (Management Development Program). “These initiatives are about more than just filling positions – they’re about breaking barriers and challenging the status quo. We’re bringing more previously disadvantaged individuals into dealerships as dealer owners or managers, and in doing so, we’re reshaping the face of the industry.
“We’re not just selling cars, we’re selling experiences,” Vusi said. “And every experience should be inclusive and respectful of our diverse customer base. After all, a satisfied customer is the best business strategy of all.”
Outside of work, you can find Vusi on the tennis court or enjoying what he calls his “mini zoo” – two dogs and two cats.
One lesson he lives by is to try to find inspiration in every person he encounters.
“We all carry with us lessons that others can learn from,” Vusi said. “By engaging with different people from all walks of life, I've learned to draw inspiration from the smallest life wins and particularly when it means the world to that person.”