Andrew Kirby’s successful career in the automotive industry was shaped by a good foundation in academics and sports which he excelled at throughout his childhood. This balance prepared him for his future roles in leadership, where he had to be strategic and competitive.
Andrew’s story highlights the influence of family on career choices and aspirations. Growing up with a father who worked in the automotive industry, Andrew was exposed to the industry’s innovations and possibilities from an early age. This exposure inspired him to pursue a career in the same field and build upon his father’s legacy. It is a common phenomenon that children often follow in the footsteps of their parents, and Andrew’s story is a testament to that.
Apart from career aspirations, the advice he tells his teenage self also speaks to the importance of work-life balance and living in the present. As he looks back on his life, he recognizes the importance of being adventurous and enjoying the moment. His advice is a reminder that life is short and that one should strive to make the most of it. It is essential to find a balance between work and life and not let work consume one’s time and energy. Living in the present and being adventurous can help one find fulfilment and happiness in life.
A 30-Year Career with Toyota: Global Experiences and Leadership Lessons
Andrew has spent over 30 years with Toyota and has held various roles across different regions, including the United States and Japan. He attributes his diverse experiences to shaping his thinking and leadership approach. Working across different regions and cultures has taught him how to work cross-culturally and integrate divergent teams. It also allowed him to think more long-term and understand the importance of strategic planning. Andrew’s journey with Toyota shows that global experiences can shape one’s leadership style and help one understand different markets and customer needs.
The Importance of Mentorship: Guidance for Professional Development
Having a mentor can be a valuable asset in one’s professional life, as it provides the guidance and support necessary for growth and development. Mentors can help navigate the ups and downs of a career and offer valuable insights into industry knowledge and connections. They can help identify strengths and areas for improvement, as well as provide feedback and constructive criticism. The relationship between mentor and mentee is built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to professional growth.
Andrew’s personal experience highlights the importance of mentorship in his career. He acknowledges that he had several mentors who played a critical role in shaping his professional journey. There were a number of people that played a big role in providing guidance, support, and industry knowledge that helped him navigate the automotive industry successfully.
Mentorship is also beneficial in building one’s professional network. A mentor can introduce their mentee to people in their industry, opening up new opportunities for growth and development. Additionally, having a mentor can help build confidence, as it provides a sounding board for ideas and a source of encouragement.
The Future of Toyota’s New Energy Vehicles in South Africa
Toyota’s new energy vehicles (NEVs) have been well received in South Africa, with the automaker taking a diversified approach to meet customers’ needs in different markets and usage requirements. Toyota started with hybrid vehicles in South Africa due to their quick impact on CO2 emissions and appealing price point. Plug-in hybrid vehicles are seen as a cool solution, while battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are an appealing proposition, especially for smaller vehicles. Toyota is working to bring competitive BEV drive-trains to South Africa in the next few years. Fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) are also an important solution for larger vehicles where battery weight can compromise overall efficiency. Additionally, Toyota is exploring carbon-neutral fuel internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles as a biofuels consideration. While the transition to NEVs may take time, Toyota is committed to making it happen and playing its part in saving the planet. The automaker believes that different technologies have pros and cons in different areas, and it is trying to introduce the most appropriate NEVs for each market segment.
