PRETORIA, South Africa – As a world-class rugby team, the South African Springboks work together as one unit to win. This approach is not unique to the pitch, and in fact happens everyday across our organisation, driven by the ONE Ford strategy.

Ford and Springboks have lots in common

To learn more about Ford’s approach to business and to share the team’s vision of success, Springboks Assistant Coach Gary Gold, along with players JP Pietersen, Bismarck Du Plessis, Bakkies Botha and Tendai Mtawarira, visited Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) on November 4. Impressed by how FMCSA was driving its operations forward despite trying industry conditions, Gold noted similarities between Ford’s business approach and his own vision of teamwork. He pointed out that our ONE Ford strategy – which is based on the three pillars of One Team, One Plan, One Goal – closely resembles the tactics the Springboks use to win games, time and time again.

As a proud South African pastime, rugby provides inspiration for many and instills a sense of national pride. During their visit to Ford’s Silverton Assembly Plant, Gold and the Springboks signed autographs and memorabilia for Ford employees who gathered to meet them.

“Gold’s passion for the Springboks is remarkably similar to our company’s passion for the Ford brand,” said Feder. “Shared vision certainly leads to shared success.”

Ford is an associate sponsor of the South African Rugby League, and has supplied 34 Ford Bantams to rugby development officers throughout South Africa.