Another woman is taking the wheel of one of Africa’s foremost automotive organisations to steer the continent’s automotive industry growth and policies along the right road.
The African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM) this week announced the appointment of Victoria Backhaus-Jerling as its chief executive, effective from March 1.
She is the first woman to lead the organisation as CEO and joins the ranks of another leading woman, Martina Biene, who occupies the position of president of the AAAM and is the first female managing director of Volkswagen Group Africa.
Backhaus-Jerling succeeds Dave Coffey, who has served as CEO since February 2020 and is retiring after five years.
The former head of the project office in SA for the German Association of the Automotive Industry said she was honoured to be appointed in the role and aimed to build on the association’s strong foundation.
“My focus will be on driving collaboration, inclusivity and innovation across the continent, ensuring that AAAM continues to serve its members and stakeholders effectively,” she said.
“We have declared 2025 the year of collaboration and inclusivity, and I am excited to work with partners to further industrialise and grow Africa’s automotive industry.
“There is a lot to be done, and I am ready to take on the challenge.”
The AAAM, which celebrates its 10-year anniversary in 2025, is the only African body dedicated to expanding and deepening the automotive industry across the continent.
It works with governments to develop policies that attract investment and drive industrialisation.
Biene congratulated Backhaus-Jerling on her appointment and thanked Coffey for his service and dedication in the role.
“She has demonstrated remarkable expertise and commitment to the development of the African automotive industry, and our board is confident she will lead AAAM to even greater achievements.
“We are also proud to welcome the first woman to this pivotal role.
“We also extend our gratitude to Dave for his tireless dedication in transforming AAAM into a highly respected organisation.
“Under his leadership, AAAM has grown from 17 members in 2020 to 80 members today and has become a key player in advancing automotive industrialisation in Africa,” Biene said.
Coffey described his tenure as an “incredible and fun journey” having witnessed the progress of Africa’s automotive industry.
“I have met many remarkable people who are committed to making Africa succeed.
“I am confident that under Victoria’s leadership, AAAM will reach new heights.
“The future is full of opportunity, with countries like Egypt, Ghana and Ivory Coast implementing their automotive policies this year, and others, such as Kenya and Nigeria, advancing their auto bills.”
Coffey highlighted Africa’s growing role in mineral beneficiation, regional value chains and the establishment of automotive rules of origin under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
In 2025, AAAM plans to expand its presence by opening project offices in Tunis, Cairo and, following legislative approval, Nairobi.
The Herald
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