Milton Keynes, 11 February 2025 – Volkswagen Group UK is reinforcing its unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) with the announcement that Managing Director, Damien O’Sullivan, has become a Patron of the prestigious Automotive 30% Club. This milestone highlights the Group’s ongoing focus on promoting gender balance and inclusivity in the automotive industry, as well as its dedication to continued progress in the DE&I sphere.
O’Sullivan, who took the reins of Volkswagen Group UK in December 2024, succeeds Alex Smith, the inaugural Patron and Gold member of the Club. With over 70 MDs and CEOs from across the automotive sector part of the Automotive 30% Club, this influential network seeks to unite leaders who are not only committed to building diverse, gender-balanced teams but who also act as champions of inclusive leadership in an industry facing transformation.
Volkswagen Group UK’s DE&I Achievements and Future Commitment
Volkswagen Group UK is already a shining example of how far an organisation can progress when it prioritises inclusivity. Currently, the company boasts more than 46 per cent female representation, an impressive statistic that underscores its commitment to fostering diversity at all levels. The Group’s successful efforts have seen it exceed its target of having at least 30 per cent of women in senior leadership positions—an achievement that sets a new standard for the sector. Yet, as O’Sullivan is quick to highlight, this is only the beginning.
“We’ve made significant strides over the last decade, but our journey is far from complete,” he says. “My appointment as Patron allows us to build on our existing achievements and further accelerate the positive change we’re seeing within the organisation. We’ve set the stage for even greater progress, and we’re determined to continue advancing in our pursuit of true gender equity.”
The automotive giant is determined to raise the bar even higher. Volkswagen Group UK’s focus is now on increasing female representation across all levels of leadership. The goal is clear: not just to reach diversity targets, but to sustain meaningful, lasting change.
A Collaborative Approach to Industry Transformation
Julia Muir, founder of the Automotive 30% Club, enthusiastically welcomed O’Sullivan into his new role. “We are thrilled to have Damien O’Sullivan join the Club as a Patron Gold member,” she commented. “His inclusive leadership style, combined with his rich international experience, will bring fresh perspectives and a multi-dimensional approach to our efforts. Together, we will work to build gender-balanced, high-performing teams across the automotive sector. I am confident that Damien’s collaborative approach will help us achieve even greater success in the years to come.”
O’Sullivan’s appointment serves not only as a recognition of the work already accomplished at Volkswagen Group UK but also as a clarion call for the continued evolution of DE&I efforts across the industry. “I’m proud to be joining an organisation that is already a leader in this field,” he says. “Our award-winning initiatives, active Employee Network Groups, and intersectional approach provide a solid foundation for the future, and I am committed to taking us to the next level.”
Looking Forward: A Decade of Progress
Volkswagen Group UK’s role as a Patron of the Automotive 30% Club reflects the deep-rooted values of inclusion that the company has long upheld. As it enters its second decade of DE&I efforts, the Group remains resolute in its commitment to creating an environment where all employees, regardless of gender, race, or background, feel supported, empowered, and valued.
With O’Sullivan at the helm and the backing of the Automotive 30% Club, Volkswagen Group UK is poised to continue its pioneering work in the automotive sector. The company’s dedication to driving change and fostering diversity within its workforce is not just a business imperative—it’s a reflection of the leadership, values, and principles that will help shape the future of the industry.
To learn more about Volkswagen Group UK’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, visit Volkswagen Group UK.
