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.