“The grounding I received at Rhodes University enabled me to qualify as a Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)) and set the foundation for the career path I have been fortunate to pursue. The CA qualification develops a diverse set of financial, business, and strategic skills, and the strong academic foundation I gained at Rhodes has supported me throughout the various roles I have held, particularly as I transitioned into leadership.” – Taryn Woodbridge
By: Mbali Tanana
After 22 years at Mercedes-Benz South Africa, where she began as a Product Control Analyst, Taryn Woodbridge is now the CEO of the German carmaker.
The Rhodes University alumnus, who qualified as a chartered accountant after completing her Master’s in Commerce and taxation, said her qualification and her years of industry experience have prepared her for the role.
“It is a truly surreal moment! Growing up, passing the factory gates, I often dreamed of working at Mercedes-Benz, and I even shared my aspiration with my husband to one day lead the finance team – never imagining that I would one day lead the entire company.”
“I believe the past 22 years have led me to this moment. Through serving in various leadership roles and gaining broad business experience, I feel prepared for this responsibility. The support from the MBSA family and the broader community deeply humbles me. It has been incredibly meaningful to receive so many messages of encouragement,” she said.
Woodbridge said that while she is stepping into this role during a challenging time, she remains confident in her strengths.
“I am grounded in my key strengths: being a relator, maintaining a strategic outlook, and focusing on execution. Together with my team, I am ready,” she said.
“The grounding I received at Rhodes University enabled me to qualify as a Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)) and set the foundation for the career path I have been fortunate to pursue. The CA qualification develops a diverse set of financial, business, and strategic skills, and the strong academic foundation I gained at Rhodes has supported me throughout the various roles I have held, particularly as I transitioned into leadership. I am truly thankful for this experience and for the exceptional lecturers who guided me during both my undergraduate and postgraduate years,” she said.
Woodbridge said her new role is a continuation that builds on the legacy of her predecessors.
“I see my role as building on the legacy of the exceptional leaders who have come before me, while continuing to anchor the organisation in our guiding principles and core values. Mercedes-Benz South Africa has a rich presence of over 68 years in the country, and my focus is on shaping a sustainable and future-ready business – adopting agile approaches, strengthening partnerships with key stakeholders, proactively responding to industry shifts, and keeping our customers at the centre of everything we do and continuously elevating their experience of our brand.”
“It also extends to representing and growing a globally respected brand within a local context; contributing meaningfully to economic growth, advancing skills development, and supporting the communities we serve, all while remaining deeply committed to delivering the world’s most desirable cars to our customers,” she said.
Woodbridge said she would like to be remembered as the leader who stepped up during a complex and uncertain time in the auto sector.
“I would like to be remembered as a leader who stepped in during a complex and uncertain time and helped to pave the way for a stronger, more resilient, and sustainable future for both our brand and our people,” she said.
Beyond turning the wheels at the lucrative auto company, family and community development are what keep Woodbridge centred.
“I am a wife, a mom, a daughter, a sister, an aunt, a friend, a colleague, and a mentor – roles that shape who I am far beyond any title I hold. I value quality time with my family, especially on weekends away to a nearby coastal town, where we can escape together and share meaningful time. Long beach walks and settling into a good book give me time to reflect, relax and recharge. I love to read, and it’s my constant ritual that helps me unwind,” she said.
The mother of two said that beyond her immediate world, she finds purpose in supporting others.
“I am naturally drawn to mentoring and guiding people as they navigate their own journeys – offering support, sharing experiences, and providing thoughtful guidance.”
“Reflecting on my own journey, one thing stands out clearly – success is built in the small, consistent choices you make every day,” she said.
When asked how she would advise aspiring professionals and current students, Woodridge said hard work, discipline, and consistency in how you show up each day are powerful enablers for success.
“These qualities will help shape your values and behaviour while you are still a student and carry through into your career.”
“Set high standards and ambitious goals for yourself. Dream big and take ownership of your development, and do not be afraid to speak up, ask for opportunities or make your aspirations known – doors often open when you take that first step. Nothing is impossible. Don’t listen to the voice of doubt in your head; go for it! Most importantly, do not allow doubt to hold you back. Believe in what is possible, stay focused, and go for it, because nothing is impossible,” she said.
