Beth Dealtry

Beth Dealtry, 27, didn’t plan on entering the vehicle manufacturing sector. But a disrupted postgrad plan and a timely internship shifted her course. Originally set on becoming a lawyer, Beth pursued a philosophy, politics and economics degree at the University of Cape  Town, followed by an honours and MCom in economics and competition regulation. She is now one of the leading policy minds in South Africa’s automotive components sector. As head of policy and regulatory affairs at the National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAACAM), Beth plays a critical role in shaping policy to support local manufacturing, including advocacy efforts around APDP 2 and the New Energy Vehicle White Paper. She co-led NAACAM’s policy submission, which influenced key provisions in the final White Paper — particularly increased investment support for component manufacturers. She also led the successful delivery of the NAACAM Show 2023, the sector’s flagship conference. Her ability to blend sharp policy analysis with stakeholder management and strategic execution has earned her the trust of government departments, original equipment manufacturers and suppliers.

• Bachelor of Social Science in Politics, Philosophy and Economics, University of Cape Town – with distinction in economics and studies in PPE
• Bachelor of Commerce honours in Economics, University of Cape Town – (*cum laude)
• Master of Commerce in Competition and Economic Regulation, University of Johannesburg – (*cum laude)

• Strengthened trust and relationships with NAACAM members, government stakeholders and other partners, enhancing the association’s credibility.
• New Energy Vehicle (NEV) White Paper Advocacy – co-led, alongside the NAACAM CEO and senior leadership, the development of a robust advocacy position based on research and member input; presented directly to Ministers Patel and Godongwana; key proposals reflected in the final White Paper, including increased investment support for component manufacturers.
• NAACAM Show 2023 – served as project lead, delivering a fully subscribed exhibition, high-impact conference programme and meaningful policy dialogue, which later informed policy documents.
• Graduated with Master of Commerce (MCom) in Competition and Economic Regulation in Competition and Economic Regulation, cum laude (2023) – thesis focused on the automotive industry, assessing the impact of carbon regulations on automotive component manufacturers; completed degree while excelling in career and managing the NAACAM Show.

As cliché as it may seem, my parents are my biggest role models. My father, a founder and director of an automotive company, has been a constant mentor and source of inspiration. Originally from a small UK town, he has built his career from the ground up, becoming a respected industry leader through hard work and determination. Beyond teaching me much of what I know about the industry, he has also been a key source of guidance as I have stepped into a management role. My mother is equally inspiring. As an accomplished professor, she gave me a real-life example, while I was growing up, of what a strong, successful woman in the workplace looks like. Professionally, I have grown immensely under the mentorship of NAACAM’s chief executive and chief operations officer. Their guidance has allowed me to take on opportunities and responsibilities beyond my years and pushed me to reach new heights. Their support has been instrumental in shaping my confidence and overall career trajectory. I am also grateful to several leaders of locally owned and multinational component companies who, as informal mentors, have generously shared their insights, encouraged my development and acted as sounding boards for important decisions.