PRETORIA, 3 February 2026 – Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (Manufacturing) (Pty) Limited (“Ford South Africa”) has announced the appointment of Dustin Chick as Communications Director, effective 1 March 2026. Chick, an award-winning strategic communications leader, joins the company as it continues to innovate and strengthen its century-long presence in South Africa’s automotive industry.
Chick brings a wealth of expertise in reputation management and strategic communications, having advised CEOs, corporates, C-suite executives, government ministers, and community organisations on complex reputation and communications challenges. At Ford, he will lead the communications function, overseeing the modernisation and execution of the company’s communications strategy, with a strong emphasis on digital-first transformation and impactful storytelling.
“Ford is delighted to welcome Dustin to our team at such an exciting time for both the company and the automotive sector,” says Neale Hill, President of Ford Motor Company, Africa. “Automotive manufacturing remains a cornerstone of South Africa’s economic future, supporting employment, investment in industrial capacity, and contributing to the country’s broader economic and social development. Communications has become increasingly strategic, and Dustin’s appointment strengthens our ability to engage with staff, customers, dealers, and stakeholders with clarity, credibility, and purpose.”
Before joining Ford, Chick spent six years as CEO of communications agency Razor, which launched in early 2020 and quickly rose to become the most awarded PR agency in Africa. His leadership has been defined by innovative thinking, strategic insight, and a results-driven approach to reputation management.
“Joining Ford South Africa is a rare and compelling opportunity,” Chick says. “Communications is evolving from a support function to a central element of strategic leadership. In an era of heightened scrutiny and accelerated change, it is essential for organisations to build long-term trust, competitiveness, and shared prosperity with employees, communities, and customers. Ford’s century-long manufacturing legacy, its role in South Africa’s industrialisation, and its global reach make it uniquely positioned to amplify this impact. I look forward to helping the communications team focus and extend this influence.”
Away from the fast pace of corporate communications, Chick is a devoted father of two teenagers, shares his home with two labradors, and enjoys travelling and cooking whenever time allows.
