Ford Appoints Geoff Lourens Product Communications Manager
The veteran professional joined the South African automotive division effective 1 October 2026.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in People
Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa has appointed Geoff Lourens as its new product communications manager, a role he assumed on 1 October 2026. Lourens brings over 15 years of experience in the automotive and financial services sectors to the team.
Why it matters
The appointment bolsters Ford's communications strategy as the company prepares to introduce new vehicle models to the South African market. Lourens will focus on engaging media, influencers and creators to highlight vehicle reliability.
Geoff Lourens steps into the role with 15 years of industry experience, supporting a company that has maintained operations in South Africa for over 100 years.
The players
Geoff Lourens
He is the product communications manager at Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa who previously worked in senior roles at Accenture Song and Spark44.
Dustin Chick
He serves as the communications director at Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa to whom the new product communications manager reports.
The details
Lourens will oversee product and lifestyle communications efforts across South Africa while reporting directly to communications director Dustin Chick. He previously held senior positions at Accenture Song and Spark44, as well as serving as brand manager at iCAUR South Africa.
Timeline
Geoff Lourens assumed the product communications manager role on 1 October 2026.
Market Landscape
This leadership addition follows the Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa centenary operations, signalling a commitment to local market growth. It positions the company to maintain its competitive stance as it aims to expand its vehicle portfolio in the region.
Customers can expect a shift in how Ford presents its upcoming vehicle range as the company leans into new influencer and lifestyle-focused communication channels. This strategic move aims to improve the brand's visibility and reliability messaging for South African motorists.
The takeaway
The appointment highlights the growing importance of lifestyle marketing in the competitive South African automotive sector. Readers interested in the brand should look for more diverse content and influencer partnerships surrounding Ford product launches moving forward.
Further reading
For more on industry leadership changes, see People.
