Communications Director, South Africa

The Communications Director, Ford South Africa, is responsible for modernising and leading all aspects of the company’s communications strategy in South Africa. This includes a strong emphasis on digital transformation and impactful storytelling to build brand reputation, foster stakeholder engagement, and support core business objectives. The role requires a strategic leader who will manage media relations, explore direct-to-consumer communication channels, oversee new product launches and sustainment programs, deliver impactful internal communications, and provide expert counsel to senior leadership and a dedicated team. The incumbent will work closely with social media, marketing, manufacturing, and HR teams to ensure Ford’s vision and values are communicated effectively and consistently.

• Lead the development, implementation and management of breakthrough product, corporate and internal communications strategies, covering all stakeholders and channels (working with agency partners where appropriate).
• Provide guidance and counsel in the planning and execution of corporate, product and employee communications initiatives, including new product launches.
• Lead the development and implementation of innovative, digital-first communications strategies across all channels and stakeholders.
• Drive impactful storytelling initiatives that resonate with South African audiences, leveraging digital platforms and multimedia content.
• In partnership with Marketing, explore and implement new forms of direct-to-consumer communication, including social media, influencer partnerships, and owned digital channels.
• Lead media relations strategy, act as primary media contact, and supervise responses to media inquiries, press releases, and events.
• Identify and proactively manage potential issues, providing guidance to team members on mitigation strategies.
• Develop and implement initiatives that promote sustainability, community engagement, and social impact, ensuring alignment with Ford's values and strategic goals. 
• Provide people leadership to direct reports, manage HR requirements, and ensure effective team governance (budget on both monetary and vehicles, events, suppliers, controls).
• Partner with senior leadership on communication initiatives by collaborating and crafting briefing materials, speeches, and presentations.
• Conduct research and analysis of industry trends, market dynamics, and competitor activities to identify new communication opportunities.
• Liaise with global and regional communications teams to align and execute strategy.
• Participate in senior management projects as directed by the Ford South Africa CEO and Board of Directors.
• 10–15 years of communications experience, including team leadership.
• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, or related field.
• Deep understanding of the South African media, digital, and automotive landscape.
• Project management experience, including budget control.
• Ability to build and cultivate relationships across functions and grade levels.
• Experience providing trusted counsel to business leaders.
• Strong commercial acumen and advocacy for a communications point of view.
• Proven ability to create and execute a modern Communications Strategy, with expertise in digital channels and storytelling.
• Excellent writing skills, attention to detail, and curiosity.
• Ability to understand and adapt to the motivations and needs of diverse audiences.
• Diplomacy, resilience under pressure, and strong interpersonal skills.

At Ford Motor Company, we believe freedom of movement drives human progress. With our incredible plans for the future of mobility, we have a wide variety of opportunities for you to accelerate your career and help us define tomorrow’s transportation.