Sales and Marketing Director, Simphiwe Nghona, is Excited About Shifting into a New Gear with Volkswagen Group Africa 

A journeyman of the automotive financial sector, Simphiwe Nghona’s nearly two-decade-long tenure at Wesbank, the specialised asset-based lending arm of The First Rand Group, and seven subsequent years at the helm of Standard Bank’s Vehicle and Assets division, has afforded him unique insight into the world of financial services, notably within the automotive sector. Having worked closely with various South African OEMs and associated portfolios linked to the local automotive sector, Simphiwe feels confident that his established relationships and experience stand him in good stead as he finds his feet as the recently appointed Sales and Marketing Director at Volkswagen Group Africa.

Of course, working for a brand with well-established roots, including on the African continent, that continues to build upon its reputation for producing “people cars” has made Nghona’s lane change into his new role that much more enticing.

“While I’m admittedly still learning about the manufacturing process, product planning, and pricing structures, I am enjoying my newfound appreciation for the thought, intricacies, and craftsmanship that go into each new Volkswagen vehicle. I am also grateful for the brand’s well-established local dealership network, which continues to demonstrate resilience and strength in the face of constantly changing market conditions.”

“I’m proud to be part of a global brand with this much heritage and legacy, especially at a time when there is such a focus on the African continent,” says Simphiwe. “I’m excited, as Volkswagen Group Africa prepares to celebrate 75 years of established trust, reputation and, indeed, livelihood in South Africa, to be working for a global brand that continues to be proactive when it comes to creating mobility solutions for Africa.”

“I’m particularly enthusiastic about finding ways for Volkswagen to have a positive influence within each new African market,” explains Simphiwe. “There are, of course, challenges, from legislation to fuel quality and infrastructure, and, indeed, which side of the car the steering wheel is positioned, within each of the 54 markets on this continent, but finding dedicated solutions, via any number of products, including Commercial, with the VW Group’s broad portfolio is what moves me as a proud African.”

Simphiwe is quick to acknowledge that the South African automotive landscape is changing rapidly, including the influence of vehicles built in both China and India.

“This change in the landscape and consumer buying patterns can largely be attributed to economic factors, including affordability and the search for perceived value for money,” explains Nghona. “Including the forthcoming new locally built Tengo compact SUV and, of course, the best-selling Polo Vivo, I think we’re in a strong position to showcase not only our proven products but also Volkswagen’s reputation for build quality, reliability, resale values, and an established after-sales offering.”

“Whether your Volkswagen is imported or assembled locally, for me, the appeal of our cars is that you know what you are buying, including the peace-of-mind that it’s been built by the long-established makers of ‘people’s cars’”.