LINDA JACKSON Q&A
We recently caught up with Peugeot’s Global CEO Linda Jackson and chatted to her about the future of the automotive industry and the brand’s presence in South Africa
CAR:
In an industry dominated by male CEOS, what is your advice to women wanting to break into the automotive industry?
LJ:
You need to work hard. You must have confidence and to a certain extent, you need to be prepared to take risks. I’ve been in this business a long time. I started at the very lowest level and worked my way up. That was probably an advantage because I have an idea of what everybody requires to get their job done, so I can set realistic targets.
Have confidence in yourself and always have fun because if you’re not having fun, what’s the point?
CAR:
With Peugeot moving towards online sales with its new Buy Online platform, how would you define the future role of brickand-mortar dealerships?
LJ:
I am a strong believer in “phygital”, which is a combination of physical and digital experience for the customers. I believe we do a lot of our research online and in the future, we will probably configure, finance and order our vehicles online. However, a car is probably the second most expensive thing you’re ever going to purchase; you’re going to want to touch it, you want to have somebody explain its features to you, you’re going to want to test drive it. There’s still a place in the future for our dealerships.
CAR:
Does Peugeot have any intention of becoming electric only at some point?
LJ:
Not for now because we are a global company and our strategy is the “power of choice”. We are electrifying our range so, by the end of this year, 70% of our range will have an electrified version; by 2025, it will be 100%. However, we will be ready when South Africa is ready.
CAR:
Despite the leaps and bounds they’ve made, French cars tend to carry a stigma among South African buyers when it comes to reliability and resale.
How does Peugeot plan to counter these issues?
LJ:
You’re right. People’s perceptions go back many years and it will take some time to change this. In South Africa, we have an action plan in place to change this negative perception – Peugeot Pride – which entails a five-year, 100 000 km warranty across all models. It’s peace of mind. It’s a courtesy car. It’s a 360-degree service. This is our promise to SA consumers.