The Autocar Great British Women in the Car Industry event has recognised 13 Ford employees in the sector’s top 100 most promising rising stars.
The Manufacturing category was won by Ford’s diesel manufacturing strategy manager, Leah Bruce, and there was strong representation of Ford women in the Marketing and Product Development categories, too.
Andy Barratt, Ford of Britain chairman and managing director, said: “I’m delighted to see so many of our female employees being recognised at this special event. Women are underrepresented in the automotive sector and it’s fantastic that events like this highlight the successful women in our industry, and raise awareness of the rewarding career opportunities that exist.”
Speaking of Leah Bruce’s manufacturing category win, Autocar’s editor, Mark Tisshaw said: “Leah’s job puts her at the epicentre of one of the toughest debates in the industry at present, making her the ideal standard bearer for showcasing just how far a career in automotive manufacturing can take you. She has reached this incredible role through a career in which it is clear she has consistently shone individually, both in the UK and abroad, and by showing a dedication to highlighting the opportunities on offer in the industry through her work promoting STEM subjects.”
The winners were announced at the second Great British Women in the Car Industry event, which aims to encourage more women into the automotive industry.
A networking lunch, supported by Ford’s 2016 Category winners; Lisa Brankin, director Ford of Britain Marketing, Julia Woodhouse, purchase director for Global Chassis, and Josephine Payne, manufacturing production area manager, provided attendees with the chance to share experiences and discuss career development.
Ford recognises the challenges of attracting young people, especially girls, to consider a future career in the automotive industry and runs a wide range of activities and initiatives to address this, to encourage more women to participate in STEM studies, and raise awareness of the career opportunities available to them.
