A groundbreaking initiative is reshaping the future of the automotive sector as Autocar, in collaboration with Ennis & Co and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), honours 40 individuals dedicated to making the industry a better and more inclusive place to work. The inaugural Autocar Drivers of Change awards, held at the SMMT headquarters in London, shone a spotlight on those spearheading diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, with JLR’s Barbara Bergmeier emerging as the overall winner.
Recognising Visionary Leadership
The Autocar Drivers of Change initiative serves as a sibling event to the esteemed Autocar Great Women awards and is committed to acknowledging the contributions of individuals who are actively transforming the automotive industry. Autocar editor Mark Tisshaw emphasised the significance of this initiative, stating:
“The automotive industry is one that historically has not been especially inclusive or diverse, but there are brilliant individuals doing fantastic work in all sectors to reverse that trend. Drivers of Change seeks to highlight their achievements.”
Among these exceptional leaders, Barbara Bergmeier, JLR strategic advisor and former executive director of industrial operations, was celebrated for her unwavering commitment to fostering inclusion and diversity. Bergmeier’s leadership has been instrumental in JLR’s integration of supply chain, manufacturing, and purchasing under a unified structure, which has significantly enhanced productivity and profitability. However, her influence extends far beyond industrial operations.
Championing Diversity and Inclusion
Bergmeier’s recognition stems from her hands-on approach to DEI advocacy. She has actively participated in mentoring programmes and championed reverse mentoring initiatives, ensuring that diverse perspectives are valued at the highest levels of JLR. Her commitment is evident in her leadership role in the company’s pioneering £3m luxury workwear project, which introduced inclusive garments such as religious headwear and maternity clothing. Additionally, she played a key role in shaping JLR’s menopause policy, which provides flexible work arrangements, temperature-regulating attire, and additional breaks for employees experiencing menopause.
Her contributions have also been acknowledged through her recognition as an Exceptional Leader by JLR’s Race, Ethnicity and Cultural Heritage Network, where she has worked tirelessly to support and elevate black, African, and Caribbean women within the organisation. Further cementing her legacy, she launched the Automotive Women and Allies scheme, a series of industry-wide events designed to empower women and drive meaningful change.
Highly Commended Innovators
Alongside Bergmeier, five individuals were highly commended for their outstanding contributions to DEI within their respective organisations:
- Warren Richards (Audi UK): A driving force behind gender equality at Volkswagen Group UK, Richards has fostered an inclusive culture through strategic mentorship and advocacy, resulting in a workforce that is now 46% female and achieving Inclusive Employers Standard Gold accreditation in 2023.
- Jaskirat Singh (BMW Group UK): A passionate advocate for inclusion, Singh has been instrumental in developing mentoring programmes, organising Black History Month events, and championing mental health awareness within South Asian communities through the MindsMatter network.
- Lisa Rowles (Horiba MIRA): As global HR strategy director, Rowles has spearheaded initiatives to enhance employer reputation, reduce attrition, and promote diversity within niche technical fields, ensuring a stronger and more inclusive workforce.
- Louise Gardner (Stellantis): Transitioning from a commercial role to HR leadership, Gardner has led the ‘Together We Belong’ strategy, fostering thriving Employee Resource Groups, championing early careers outreach, and launching innovative talent development schemes.
- Mike Orford (Volkswagen UK): A dedicated advocate for inclusivity, Orford has played a pivotal role in establishing Volkswagen Group UK’s ‘We Drive Proud’ Employee Network Group and orchestrating impactful initiatives, including Milton Keynes Pride Festival sponsorship and high-profile public engagements.
Stellantis: Setting the Benchmark for DEI
Beyond individual recognition, Stellantis was named the Drivers of Change Company Award recipient for its exceptional commitment to DEI across its global network. Unlike individual awards, this category was determined based on the depth and effectiveness of company-wide DEI initiatives. Stellantis has implemented a variety of forward-thinking programmes, such as ‘Together We Belong’ and ‘Talent for All,’ demonstrating a strong, embedded culture of inclusion.
Judges commended Stellantis for its ability to empower employees to drive meaningful change, fostering a work environment where innovation and inclusivity go hand in hand.
A Catalyst for Industry-Wide Change
The Autocar Drivers of Change awards serve as a powerful testament to the automotive industry’s evolving landscape, where diversity, equity, and inclusion are increasingly recognised as fundamental to success. By celebrating these remarkable individuals and organisations, Autocar and its partners, Ennis & Co and SMMT, are amplifying the importance of creating a workplace that is welcoming, supportive, and empowering for all.
For a complete list of winners and further insights into the Drivers of Change initiative, visit Autocar’s dedicated microsite.
