Empowering Women: The Inspiring Automotive Women Awards Celebrate Game-Changers in the Industry

The Auto30Club recently held its Inspiring Automotive Women Awards, shining a bright light on extraordinary women making significant strides in the automotive sector. The prestigious event took place on March 11, 2026, at the London InterContinental Hotel and was attended by notable figures who gathered to celebrate the achievements of 24 remarkable award winners selected from over 500 nominations.

A New Standard of Leadership

This year, the most coveted accolade, the IMI and Auto30Club Inspiring Automotive Woman of The Year, was awarded to Gemma Benbow, who serves as the People and Organisation Director at Kia UK. Benbow stands out not just for her achievements but as a beacon of hope for aspiring female leaders in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Her commitment to diversity and inclusion has significantly reshaped Kia's corporate culture, making her an exemplary figure in transformative leadership.

Catalysts for Change

Julia Muir, the founder of the Automotive 30% Club, emphasized the importance of these awards in driving cultural change within organizations. Despite most members of the Auto30Club being male CEOs and MDs, the awards act as a catalyst for broader changes throughout the automotive industry. Muir stated that the award winners symbolize a shift towards a more inclusive work environment where women can thrive, breaking barriers and smashing glass ceilings.

Recognizing Pioneers

Among the 24 winners, many have become the first women to occupy critical roles within their companies, showcasing not just their talents but also paving the way for future generations. These women are not only trailblazers but also present a united front for gender equality in leadership roles. The success of this initiative reflects a notable achievement where the club surpassed its goal of having women fill 30% of automotive leadership roles five years ahead of schedule.

This year’s Inspiring Automotive Women Awards serve as a powerful reminder of the impact of female leadership and the importance of diversity in driving progress in the automotive industry. Congratulations to all the award winners, especially Gemma Benbow, for their significant contributions and commitment to making meaningful changes. Their stories inspire not just women in automotive but all sectors striving for equality and representation.