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• Liz Gorbunov joined Nissan South Africa in 2016.
• In 2021, she'll be responsible for commercialising the new Nissan Navara.
• Liz believes that women are just as capable as their male counterparts.
• For more motoring stories, go to www.Wheels24.co.za
In 2016, Nissan South Africa gained a gem in Liz Gorbunov. The dynamic lady took on the role of the general manager for sales and aftersales operations for Sub-Saharan Africa. While stimulating, Liz could never sit entirely still and worked her way up the Nissan SA ladder.
In the past four years, she experienced plenty of the highs, and in 2021 another will come her way.
Liz's position now is that of chief marketing manager for light commercial vehicles (LCVs) and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) for the Japanese automaker; being responsible for commercializing the new Nissan Navara - set for local production from next year onwards.
2020 Nissan Navara (MotorPress)
Utilizing talents
While Liz is excited about the future and being part of the Navara's local production, she lauds Nissan SA's attitude towards its employees and the work environment.
"Nissan strives to create workplaces where employees are motivated to rise to the challenge while being able to work safely and comfortably, enjoying full mental and physical health," she says, explaining how Nissan embraces diversity and creating a space where each individual can grow. This is what motivated her to move within the organization.
Not only that, but Liz adds that everyone is encouraged to bring their talents to the table to achieve the 'ambitious' goals set out.
She says: "Nissan is working to create an inclusive environment that encourages active participation from all employees, regardless of gender, and supports the career development of female employees."
Nissan assembly plant in Rosslyn, Pretoria (MotorPress)
Dream big!
Liz has never been afraid of a challenge. Throughout her career, she's made it her mission to disprove theories and clichés on what women can and can't do. And it is this mindset she wants young women to adopt.
She says: "Ultimately, we as women are equally as competent and as capable as our male counterparts and should, therefore, never restrict our ambition."
Her ambitions and dreams align with that of Nissan SA in a post-Covid-19 era. These plans include the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in SA, as well as ensuring that manufacturing excellence is maintained.
Liz quotes Oprah Winfrey as she closes: "The great courageous act that we must all do, is to have the courage to step out of our history and past so that we can live our dreams."
Do you know a phenomenal woman who's made an impact or difference in any sphere of the auto industry? Email us your/their story, with images.
Liz Gorbunov. Image: Nissan SA
Nissan's all-electric Ariyah (Nissan Media)
