- Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa is a Top Employer for the second year, recognised for industry-leading employee practices and workplace wellbeing
- With 5 200 employees and a 200 000-unit production capacity, Ford drives economic growth, supporting approximately 60 000 jobs in the value chain
- Ford invests in its people through training, Employee Resource Groups, and wellbeing initiatives, fostering inclusivity and growth
Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (Manufacturing) (Pty) Ltd (Ford South Africa) has been certified for a second year as a Top Employer, reaffirming its status as a leading organisation committed to fostering a supportive and high-performing workplace. The prestigious recognition from the Top Employers Institute highlights Ford South Africa’s continuous efforts to implement industry-leading people practices that enhance employee satisfaction, professional growth, and overall workplace culture.
Achieving this certification underscores the company’s holistic approach to employee development and wellbeing as core pillars of its success. The recognition also reflects the collaborative spirit and commitment demonstrated by Ford’s workforce, whose dedication fuels the company’s long-term sustainability and leadership in the industry.
Ford South Africa’s commitment to its employees extends far beyond certification. The company has a rich history in South Africa spanning more than a century, marked by continuous investment in its people and operations. Ford has been a key player in South Africa’s automotive industry for over a century, continuously investing in its people and operations. It employs over 5 200 people at the Silverton Manufacturing Plant in Pretoria and the Struandale Engine Plant in Gqeberha, supporting thousands of supply chain jobs and contributing to economic growth.
Since assembling the Model T in 1924, Ford South Africa has become a major manufacturing force, including exporting the locally built Ranger to over 100 markets since 2011. With a production capacity of up to 200 000 vehicles annually, the company supports approximately 60 000 jobs across its value chain. In 2021, Ford announced a major investment to modernise the Silverton operations, followed by a further investment in 2023 to produce the first-ever Ranger Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) for global export.
“This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our employees who embody the Ford Behaviours of Excellence, Focus, and Collaboration,” said Neale Hill, president, Ford Motor Company, Africa. “As we celebrate this recognition, we remain focused on pushing boundaries and setting new benchmarks for employee development and satisfaction.”
Ford South Africa’s emphasis on fostering innovation and teamwork has enabled the company to create an exceptional employee experience. The organisation continues to invest in enhancing its workplace culture, ensuring that every employee feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Beyond manufacturing, Ford South Africa actively invests in employee development through local and international experiential training, fostering a workplace that encourages continuous learning, growth, and innovation. This commitment extends to initiatives that enhance the overall employee experience, ensuring that Ford remains an employer of choice.
“We are honoured to be recognised as a Top Employer once again,” said Lynn Damons, HR director, Ford South Africa. “This certification motivates us to continuously raise the bar, prioritising the growth and wellbeing of our employees while upholding the high standards that make Ford an employer of choice, ensuring our people are equipped with the tools, skills and support they need to thrive.”
Ford South Africa’s dedication to employee wellbeing extends beyond professional development. The company actively supports volunteerism, giving each employee 16 hours annually for charitable work, such as during Global Caring Month. Every September, Ford Philanthropy mobilises employees globally to support humanitarian efforts, addressing food insecurity, healthcare, education gaps, and other pressing social challenges. Employees and dealers nominate nonprofits to receive grants, helping sustain and expand services to those in need.
Ford South Africa also champions health and wellness initiatives, including the Ranger Dash, a 5km Fun Run/Walk aimed at raising awareness for breast and prostate cancer. This event unites manufacturing and non-manufacturing teams, reinforcing the importance of early detection and health advocacy.
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) play a vital role in fostering a sense of belonging and community among employees. These groups, including the Ford Choir, Pride, Women of Ford, running clubs, and soccer clubs, bring together individuals with shared interests beyond the workplace. By uniting employees through a common passion ̶ whether music, sport, or advocacy ̶ ERGs help strengthen connections, promote inclusivity, and enhance overall well-being, making Ford not just a place to work, but a place to belong.
Recognising the invaluable contributions of its long-serving employees, Ford South Africa has introduced a special tree-planting initiative to honour retirees. Each retiring employee is invited to plant a tree, symbolising their lasting impact on the company and reinforcing Ford South Africa’s commitment to sustainability. This initiative ensures that their legacy continues to inspire future generations of Ford employees.
Ford South Africa is also making significant strides in workforce sustainability and employee engagement. The company is implementing advanced training and mentorship programmes designed to empower employees and cultivate leadership potential at all levels. These initiatives are part of Ford South Africa’s broader vision to future-proof its workforce while reinforcing a culture of continuous learning and professional growth.
As Ford South Africa looks to the future, its dedication to its employees remains unwavering. The company will continue to invest in its people, foster a culture of excellence, and uphold its responsibility as a corporate citizen committed to South Africa’s growth and prosperity.
Ford South Africa’s recognition as a Top Employer for 2025 is more than just an accolade; it is a reflection of its enduring commitment to its employees, its industry, and the communities it serves.
