Q&A with Esther Seabi:

Esther Seabi leads sustainability at FUCHS LUBRICANTS South Africa, drawing on her in Sustainability, HR and transformation background. She shares insights on driving sustainable strategy, overcoming industry challenges, and supporting women leaders.
 

Q: How has your role at FUCHS LUBRICANTS evolved into leading sustainability?

A: FUCHS aspires to be the most sustainable lubricants provider and has set some ambitious targets both for the environmental and social aspects of sustainability. We aim to be NetZero on scope 1&2 by 2040, reducing our 2021 by 90%. Meaning we are not relying on compensation through carbon credits but aiming for absolute reductions. This meant we had to develop a roadmap of how this will be achieved while also developing projects to be energy efficient and use renewable energy. We introduced an energy management system, that we aim to have certified by the end of 2025 (ISO 50001). We also focus on the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals; the energy management and climate change aspects being addressed though the above and the others though our transformation and ethics programmes. These include No poverty, gender equality, reducing social inequality, improving quality of education, etc. 

In summary, there had to be more emphasis on the sustainable development goals and emphasis on addressing climate change and over time developing deeper knowledge in these areas. 

Q: What does sustainability truly mean to you in a corporate setting?

A: A commitment to positive impact. Understanding the impact of one’s business activities and making an effort to minimise negative impacts and maximise positives. For example, our impact throughout our supply chain. How do our procurement choices influence for instance human rights practices of suppliers? The type of materials they offer. Are they aligned to our goals? Integration of sustainability into everyday business decisions through policies and processes. 

Q: How have HR and transformation roles shaped your leadership style?

A: Understanding the broader socio-economic context and the internal dynamics, specifically around diversity and inclusion and building or influencing organisational culture to address the broader socio-economic challenges and advocating for a more inclusive environment. 

Q: Can you share a breakthrough moment as a woman in a male-dominated industry?

A: I can’t think of one moment. In fact, I think it is specific to the situation. Being able to read a situation and respond appropriately. And often not being afraid to ask questions. I am a firm believer in dialogue. I strive for understanding. I appreciate that everybody has their own perspective, and I strive to also see through their eyes. Understanding begets understanding. I also think demonstrating competence also contributes. 

Q: What impact did your transformation work at Lafarge have on communities?

A: Education has always been an area of interest, particularly enabling access to quality jobs. Through our math’s and science programmes, many learners were able to study and later work in STEM careers. Most were female, addressing gender inequalities as well as economic participation.

Q: How do you mentor women leaders, and what have you learned from it?

A: This is something that I really enjoy and feel strongly about. It is satisfying to see people progressing. I am happy to share knowledge and encourage to take those steps to get experience. 

I learnt that listening skills are critical for deep understanding and problem solving. Hearing people and their concerns builds confidence and enables them to be authentic. 

Q: What unconventional advice would you give women aiming for leadership in traditional sectors?

A: It’s OK to be a woman! Bring in your femininity, your whole self. A different voice is needed.

More about Esther Seabi

Esther Seabi is currently the Sustainability Director at FUCHS LUBRICANTS South Africa, where she has been thriving since November 2015. In a male-dominated industry, Esther stands out not only because of her leadership role but also due to her profound commitment to sustainability. Her passion and expertise in this field make her an ideal candidate for a profile piece.

Esther’s Professional Journey

• As Sustainability Director at FUCHS LUBRICANTS South Africa for the past 9 years, Esther has been instrumental in developing and implementing sustainability strategies. Additionally, she serves as the General Manager of the Fuchs Foundation Trust, where she manages initiatives that align with her vision for a sustainable future.
• Esther’s early career as an HR Manager at Denel provided her a solid foundation in managing diverse teams and developing impactful organisational policies.
• As Sustainability Specialist at Safcor Panalpina Esther honed her skills in balancing economic and environmental interests.
• And as Transformation Manager at Lafarge at Lafarge, Esther formulated and executed transformation strategies. She spearheaded socio-economic and enterprise development projects, proving her capability in driving meaningful change.

Esther embodies the essence of women empowerment through her leadership, innovation, and unwavering dedication to creating a sustainable future. Her story is not only inspiring for women in business but also for anyone passionate about making a positive impact on the world.

About FUCHS

FUCHS develops, produces, and markets high-grade lubricants and related specialties for virtually all industries Founded in 1931 as a family business in Mannheim, FUCHS is now the world's largest independent supplier of innovative lubricant solutions, covering almost every industry and application. Today, the company’s 6 000 employees in over 50 countries still share the same goal: To keep the world moving both sustainably and efficiently. 

To live up to this claim, we think in terms of perfection, not merely standards. When developing individual solutions, we enter into an intensive customer dialogue – acting as an experienced consultant, innovative problem solver and reliable team partner. The results we provide meet not only the highest technological requirements, but also help customers save on operating costs and emissions. Because at FUCHS, sustainability is not simply an empty phrase, but a mindset – and thus the basis and aspiration of all our business activity.