In the driving seat for our first Turbo Talk of 2024 is Kirsten Dodd, product launch manager at BASF
How did you get started in the industry?I came into the industry in 2003 – now that I say that out loud, that seems like a lifetime ago. I started in an marketing & administration role at BASF Coatings.
What do you do now?
Product Launch Manager
What do you most like about the industry?
People always make every industry interesting and unique, so it’s the people for me. I am fortunate to work with and learn from amazing colleagues and also our customer network.
What do you most dislike about the industry?
The low rate of youth entering the industry to pursue a career that could lead then into many different avenues. I think there are some great opportunities for those who wish to learn, work hard and advance their careers.
Who do you most admire in the industry?
There are a number of female bodyshop owners I admire for their ability to juggle very large businesses and also their life. A few to mention would be Renee Amirian, Helena Willmot, Angela Manteit and Andrea McCarthy – there are so many more, but their success is something to be admired and I always appreciate those who are successful and still very humble.
Cars! tell us - first car, current car, dream car?
My first car was a VW Beetle, I can’t remember it’s vintage year, but it was sky blue and riddled with issues, but I loved it. Current car is a family friendly Holden Equinox. I don’t really have a ‘dream’ car, but I do like the Jeep Gladiators at the moment.