“A game-changing campaign” is how the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has described its push to fill, what its data suggests, is 111,400 required roles in the next 10 years as the sector faces a 20 year high in vacancies.
There are currently 218 occupations across the industry, with technological advances – from ADAS and electric to connected motoring and online sales – creating opportunities that go far beyond traditional perceptions of working in automotive.
Now, the Diversity task force – even championed by Linda Jackson, chief executive officer at Peugeot – has been created to “urgently” encourage more people to think about a career in automotive, the IMI will be attempting to debunk “the outdated perceptions that are at the heart of the recruitment challenges”.
“Understandably, businesses are worried about filling vacancies and the impact of skills shortages,” said Lesley Woolley, IMI chief.
“We acknowledge the stereotyping that happens and why many people think that a job in automotive is dirty, a masculine work environment, and not welcoming for everyone.
“But automotive is changing. The Diversity Task Force has enabled us to work with many businesses who are leading the change to create more equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplaces.
“They’ve understood the intrinsic value of attracting, nurturing, and retaining diverse talent. It’s now time to showcase the changing face of automotive, a vibrant, tech-led, customer and people-centric ecosystem. It’s a great time to be working in the sector which the campaign will clearly demonstrate.”
Central to the IMI’s campaign will be real voices telling real stories about their positive career experiences. It will also highlight that career opportunities exist for individuals, whether at the start of their working life or looking for a change in direction.
Kicking off in September – a time when most people look at new opportunities following the summer break – regionally targeted activity will pinpoint job roles matched to employers with vacancies, the campaign will also highlight stories of those who have moved into automotive for a career change.
“Urgent action is needed to start attracting talent and reassure joiners that automotive is an enticing, exciting and inclusive sector” concluded Woolley. “We also need employers to embrace and amplify the campaign through their own channels. After all, it’s their businesses that will benefit.”
The IMI is urging members and the wider automotive community to share their real voices to raise awareness of the potential of automotive. To find out more, click here.
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