The African Association of Automotive Manufacturers (AAAM) has appointed Victoria Backhaus-Jerling as its new CEO, effective March 1.

Backhaus-Jerling succeeds Dave Coffey, who is retiring, having served as CEO since February 2020.

“On behalf of the AAAM management board, I congratulate Victoria on her appointment,” says AAAM president Martina Biene.

“She has demonstrated remarkable expertise and commitment to the development of the African automotive industry, and our board is confident she will lead AAAM to even greater achievements.

“We also extend our gratitude to Dave for his tireless dedication in transforming AAAM into a highly respected organisation,” adds Biene.

“Under his leadership, AAAM has grown from 17 members in 2020, to 80 members today, and it has become a key player in advancing automotive industrialisation in Africa.”

Before her appointment at AAAM, Backhaus-Jerling served as South African project office head for the German automotive industry association (VDA) for almost five years.

“My focus will be on driving collaboration, inclusivity and innovation across the continent, ensuring that AAAM continues to serve its members and stakeholders effectively,” she notes.

She adds that affordable vehicle asset finance and micromobility will remain priorities as the association works to deliver sustainable and inclusive mobility solutions for the continent.

Reflecting on his tenure, Coffey says it has been “an incredible and fun journey” to witness the progress of Africa’s automotive industry.

“The future is full of opportunity, with countries like Egypt, Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire implementing their automotive policies this year, and others, such as Kenya and Nigeria, advancing their auto Bills.”

Founded in November 2015, AAAM is dedicated to expanding and deepening the automotive industry across the continent.

The association works with governments to develop policies that attract investment, and drive industrialisation.

In 2025, AAAM plans to expand its presence by opening project offices in Tunis, Cairo and, following legislative approval, Nairobi.