Professor takes driving seat in motoring body
LOUGHBOROUGH UNIVERSITY EXPERT IS GIVEN TOP ROLE
A LOUGHBOROUGH University automotive industry and retail expert has been appointed president of the Institute of the Motor Industry.
Professor Jim Saker, right, has been appointed to the role alongside two new vice-presidents – Linda Jackson and Sandy Burgess.
Kevin Finn and Tony Tomsett have also been confirmed as chairman and honorary treasurer respectively.
The IMI is the professional body for people in the motor industry, and helps set, uphold and promote its professional standards.
A regular in the Automotive Industry Power 100, Prof Saker is director of the Centre for Automotive Management in the Business School at Loughborough University and a long-standing professor of retail management.
He has worked with government, employers and individuals in the sector for more than 30 years.
A statement from the organisation said he brings new perspective to the IMI “as the automotive industry faces a myriad of challenges, from adjusting to the changing dynamics of the economy in the aftermath of Covid-19, to equipping itself for the mobility revolution, including connected and autonomous motoring and zero emissions”.
Prof Saker said: “I don’t think there has been a more exciting – and challenging – time to be involved with the automotive sector’s sole professional body.
“With a clear focus on empowering those who work in automotive, the IMI has an immense role to play in future-proofing individuals, employers and even government.
“The commitment the IMI has shown to creating a professional standard for those working on high voltage, connected and autonomous vehicles in the form of IMI TechSafe has been second to none.
“It has also remained a determined advocate of apprenticeships in the sector, helping employers capitalise on the recruitment opportunities and attracting the next generation of workers.
“I look forward to working with chief executive Steve Nash and the executive board to ensure the IMI remains front and centre whatever the conversation about how the automotive sector can make a positive difference to people’s lives.”
Mr Nash said: “We would like to thank Graham Smith OBE FMI, who has made an invaluable contribution to the IM over the past seven years as president.
“He has brought a wealth of industry knowledge to his role as well as representing the IMI to key external stakeholders at the highest level.
“We are very excited by how Prof Jim Saker will continue Graham’s great work, placing skills at the forefront of good practice in the automotive retail sector.
“There is no question that the next few years will present all those involved in automotive with some big challenges.
“But we believe there are big opportunities too. And we have a clear road map to ensure the IMI is well positioned to support individuals, employers and trainers to exploit the opportunities.”