The prestigious Young PR Professional of the Year Award, presented by the Guild of Motoring Writers (GoMW) in association with the Motor Industry Communicators Association (MICA), is once again calling for entries. This annual accolade, which highlights emerging talent in the automotive PR industry, is open to professionals aged under 30. The winner will be announced on December 5, 2024, at the iconic Royal Automobile Club (RAC) in London.
A Pathway to Professional Excellence
With a reputation for recognising rising stars in automotive communications, the award offers an invaluable opportunity for young PR professionals to gain industry recognition and mentorship. Previous winners include notable figures such as Bryony Mannix from AutoTrader, Elizabeth Waddup from VW Financial, and Ford’s Poppy McKenzie Smith, each of whom has leveraged the award to further their careers.
Entrants have until October 28, 2024, to submit their applications, consisting of a detailed four-part profile that assesses professional experience, accomplishments, and a deep understanding of the evolving role of PR in the automotive sector.
The winner will not only receive £500 in prize money but will also gain MICA membership, valued at £150, and a one-on-one career mentorship with a senior communications director—offering an unparalleled opportunity for personal and professional growth.
How to Enter
To be considered, applicants must complete the following four-part submission:
- Profile – Share a CV detailing professional experience.
- Performance – Highlight key achievements from the past two years.
- Professionalism – Discuss personal development as a PR professional, including future career goals.
- Practice – Examine the major challenges facing automotive communications and describe how PR can adapt to this shifting landscape.
Entries will be judged on strategy, quality of work, performance, and potential to lead within the industry. Submissions are evaluated by a panel of experts led by MICA Chair, Oliver Rowe, who emphasises the importance of professional growth: “Over the years, this award has introduced us to exceptional young professionals whose profiles have risen considerably. With leadership mentoring and increased visibility, MICA is helping to nurture the next generation of industry leaders.”
The Legacy of Young PR Excellence
Each year, the winner joins a distinguished alumni group that showcases the diversity and potential within automotive PR. The most recent honoree, Bryony Mannix, currently focuses on communications and sustainability at AutoTrader, while past winners, including Elizabeth Waddup and Poppy McKenzie Smith, continue to make significant impacts at the forefront of automotive communications.
For more details and to apply, visit www.gomw.co.uk/awards. The clock is ticking for the next wave of automotive PR talent to step into the spotlight and seize this transformative opportunity.
