Kristy MacPherson
WinA Member of the Month
This month, we are featuring Kristy MacPherson.
In her Q&A, she talks about her passion for all things "two and four wheels".
Know of someone you would like to see featured as our next Women in Automotive Member of the Month, or interested in sharing your own automotive story? Get in touch below and let us know.
Tell us a bit about your current role or involvement in the automotive industry.
I am the QLD/NSW Customer Service Manager for McLeod Accessories, part of the GPC Two Wheel Division. I've been in this role for approximately two and a half years after spending four years working in motorcycle dealerships in Brisbane. My current role involves sales support and customer service for motorcycle retail stores in Australia, and also assisting end users with any product queries they have.
What was your first professional experience within the automotive industry?
After spending most of my teenage years working on motorcycles and cars with my brother, I developed a passion for all things “two and four wheels”. My first professional experience within the automotive industry was working in a Yamaha motorcycle dealership - this was a fantastic opportunity to further develop my knowledge of motorcycles and to interact with people on a daily basis who shared my passion.
What is your biggest achievement within the automotive industry, personal or professional?
Within the first year in my current position (2021), I won the 'National Sales Team Member of the Year' award for the whole Two Wheel Division. This came as a total surprise to me as I knew nothing about the award prior to winning it.
Do you have a favourite resource as a woman working in the automotive industry? Maybe a book, event, organization, mentor, or online platform?
My favourite (and most used) resource is social media: YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. There are so many women in all areas of the automotive industry who are now able to share their stories with the world. There are also many Facebook groups that are specifically just for women, which is a fantastic opportunity to connect with other women who are in similar industries or share your passion for automotive.
Who is your inspiration as a female in automotive?
Sabine Schmitz - she was a German motorsport racer and television personality who appeared regularly on the UK version of Top Gear. She was (and still holds the record as) the most successful female driver at the Nürburgring. Her dedication to pursuing her passion was admirable and it was very inspiring as a young girl to see a female dominating and "giving the men a run for their money”. She is a big part of the reason why I believed I could be successful working in the automotive industry.
What is the best piece of advice that you have received or that you could give to another woman working in the automotive industry?
To not take it personally. This obviously applies to many industries, not just automotive, but it's been the best advice I've received.
The advice I would give is the same as above but also, follow your passion! The work that you will get the most amount of satisfaction from will be the one you are passionate about. Most people will spend one third of their life at work, so why not do something you enjoy and are passionate about!