Name: Johan de Nysschen Title: President, Cadillac Company, city: Cadillac; New York, N.Y. Number of employees: 350 globally Recent project: Developing a new dealer rewards and compensation program that encourages dealers to build the brand and its identity rather than simply compete with one another. The program aims to help dealers be profitable and support them in renovating facilities to reflect the updated brand image. Enhanced services include courtesy car service, 24-hour roadside assistance and comprehensive training. First job: My first position was at a men’s fashion store in Johannesburg. Little-known fact about you: I was a competitive track and field athlete and once held hurdles records.
Your Business
Essential business philosophy: Good is the enemy of great. Set ambitious standards and then commit to achieving them. It’s important to work hard and play hard, maintaining both professional drive and personal balance. I pursue a culture of excellence, aiming for continuous improvement while appreciating the insights that come from enjoying life. Best way to keep a competitive edge: Constant innovation is essential. Monitor the competition, but concentrate on your own strengths and weaknesses. Lead through innovation rather than simply reacting. Yardstick of success: Focus on quality over quantity. Cadillac is a luxury brand and must remain aspirational. Our goal is not to have a Cadillac in every driveway but to place them in the right driveways. The brand is being restored through deliberate product and service choices.
Johan de Nysschen as a Traveler
What is the most important item you take when traveling? A phone charger, an iPad and a well-tailored sport coat—practical items that keep me prepared for any occasion. How do you spend your time on board? I listen to music, handle emails and read industry material to stay informed. What is your favorite restaurant in the world? Tin Lung Heen at The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong. What is your favorite destination in the world? The African bush, particularly Londolozi in South Africa, where I find a deep sense of peace.
About Cadillac
What are luxury car buyers looking for from today’s vehicles? Luxury buyers expect a seamless blend of cutting-edge technology and refined craftsmanship. Cadillac is advancing connectivity with features such as 4G LTE and OnStar, and we anticipate a rapid increase in vehicle data flow. We are designing intuitive ways to present that information and developing advanced driving modes, including a super cruise capability to assist drivers in heavy traffic. Research into alternative powertrains, including electric and fuel cell systems, is also a priority. What can people expect from Cadillac and its vehicles in the future? We recently introduced the CT6 flagship and began deliveries of the XT5 mid-size crossover. Our strategy is to expand Cadillac’s global presence—while currently U.S.-centric, we plan to introduce the brand to additional markets. Globally, we will launch 11 new products across new markets and aim to complete the product line by 2020, representing a significant investment by General Motors. Partnerships with luxury hospitality and travel brands, such as Fairmont Hotels and Resorts and American Airlines, have been productive, and we plan to broaden these collaborations. We are also developing a robust certified pre-owned program to support long-term customer confidence.