Euro Car Parts among winners at IMI Awards

The Institute of the Motor Industry held it’s annual dinner and awards on Wednesday (March 15) night.

This year’s event included two new categories focussed on DE&I and the environment. The President’s Award, focusing on Environmental, Sustainability and Green Innovation in Learning, was presented to UK Truck & Plant Group. The IMI Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Award was given to Volkswagen Group UK.

ECP’s Andy Hamilton (on the right) picks up Partner Award. In the pic L to R: Host Nina Hossain, IMI Chief Exec Steve Nash and Ian Plummer from sponsor Autotrader

Recognising the continued and highly valued contribution individuals make to the automotive sector, Julia Muir, Founder of the Automotive 30% Club and last year’s winner of the IMI’s Sue Brownson Award, has become an Honorary Fellow of the IMI (FIMI). She is joined by industry veteran and former IMI President, Graham Smith OBE, who has also been awarded an Honorary Fellowship.

Euro Car Parts won the ‘Partner of the Year’ Award. Judges commended the firm’s ‘commitment to CPD, learning, up-skilling, compliance and best practice’ as well as the firm’s commitment to increase the coverage of EV and other new-tech training programmes.

Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI said: “All of our winners and finalists are beacons of best-practice, determination and innovation, positively influencing change across our sector. Whether they are addressing our industry’s resources and skills shortages, rising to the UK’s carbon neutral ambition or driving the shift in the cultural diversity of our workplace, every entrant deserves the recognition.

“We are particularly delighted to welcome Julia Muir and Graham Smith OBE as Honorary Fellows of the IMI. The very different but equally vital roles they have both played and continue to play in shaping our sector, bring the promise of an exciting and hugely rewarding future.”

The winners of the IMI 2023 Awards:

Outstanding Contribution to the Automotive Industry – Auto Trader

Sponsored by Autotech Group

Contribution to the Work of the IMI – BMW Group Academy UK

Sponsored by LKQ Euro Car Parts

Apprentice of the Year – George Hinkley, Scania, South Mimms

Sponsored by GSF Car Parts

Full-time Student of the Year – Thomas Morris, Bridgwater & Taunton College

Sponsored by LKQ Euro Car Parts

Partner of the Year Award – LKQ Euro Car Parts

Sponsored by Auto Trader

President’s Award – UK Truck & Plant Group (UKTP)