By Prashirwin Naidu
Breaking into the motoring world takes passion, adaptability, and a bold
approach—qualities Michelle Lewis has embraced since launching her PR career in 2012. Now Managing Director of Have Your Say, she leads a team specialising in PR, fleet management, events and ambassador programmes. Balancing work and family, Michelle champions a people-first approach while navigating an industry shifting towards new energy vehicles and digital innovation. For her, success is about vision, resilience and human connection.
Tell us about your journey in the automotive industry. What inspired you to enter
this space, and how did you break into such a specialised field?
In 2012, I took the leap and started my own business. With a background in public
relations, I was confident in selling my services. My first job came with the relaunch of the Durban Motor Show, which was undergoing a revival at the time. Looking back, my path into motoring was probably inevitable, my husband is a petrolhead, so I was likely influenced by his passion for the industry.
What does your current role entail, and what are some key challenges and
rewards that come with it?
As Managing Director of Have Your Say, I’m hands-on across our services, from public relations to fleet management, events, and ambassador programmes. My biggest challenge? Time management. Every day, I ask myself, “What’s the best use of my time?” and, just as importantly, “How do I set some aside for myself to avoid burnout?”
Automotive brands are constantly evolving, what exciting developments or
innovations can we expect from your brand shortly?
We’re a process-driven, data-focused business, applying this approach to public
relations and events in the motor industry. As the sector evolves with new energy
vehicles, our mix of strategy and innovation appeals to clients looking for the same
balance.
Take us back to your very first driving experience, what was the first car you ever
drove, and what was it like getting your licence?
My first driving experience was on our family farm as a child, with my dad walking
beside me. I was about six, and since tractors crawl in first gear, it felt ‘safe’. I later got my licence in the UK, where I came to appreciate the driving culture. People are
defensive drivers first, always considerate of others on the road, something I really
admire.
With the automotive landscape changing rapidly, particularly with the rise of
electric vehicles and digital integration, how has your brand adapted to these
shifts?
You don’t need to be a car enthusiast or know how an engine works to enjoy these
products. The same goes for car technology; it’s similar to what you’d find on your
iPhone. We’ve found that taking a simpler, more accessible approach is really
connecting with our readers.
If you could drive any car in the world—past or present—what would be your
dream car, and why?
A rat rod! Any rat rod. Shhhh, don’t tell the EV clients.
What sets your brand apart, and why should someone consider buying it over
others?
We’re a business that truly cares. It might sound simple, but we believe it’s important because we understand there’s always a person behind everything we do– whether it’s a journalist, an ambassador, or a reader. We know that genuinely caring about what they think, feel, and what drives them makes a difference. Caring for people is something computers can’t do (yet), and it’s a core part of our company culture. I honestly think it’s what sets us apart.
