Inspiring Change: Celebrating the Achievements of Automotive Women

The automotive industry is experiencing a transformative shift towards inclusivity, and the recent Auto30Club’s Inspiring Automotive Women Awards exemplify this positive change. Held on March 11, 2026, at the prestigious London InterContinental Hotel, the event honored 24 remarkable women who have made significant strides in a traditionally male-dominated field. With a record 508 nominations, the awards celebrated those who have become role models and trailblazers in their organizations.

Trailblazing Women Recognized

Among the standout award winners was Gemma Benbow, who was named the overall Inspiring Automotive Woman of the Year. As the People and Organisation Director at Kia UK, Benbow has not only broken barriers but also serves as an inspirational figure for aspiring female leaders in automotive. Her leadership has fostered a culture of diversity and inclusion, making impactful changes within her organization.

Julia Muir, founder of the Automotive 30% Club, expressed her gratitude towards leaders like Eddie Hawthorne for their unwavering support in driving these changes. Muir highlighted how the awards are intended to be a catalyst for broader transformations within companies, which is crucial as the automotive sector seeks to balance its leadership gender dynamics.

Changing the Game in the Automotive Sector

The recognition of these pioneering women is not just a celebration; it is a pivotal moment for the industry. Muir stated that many of the award winners are the first in their roles, such as being the first women on boards or in senior executive positions. Their achievements exemplify how diverse voices can reshape corporate culture and encourage future generations of women to pursue careers in the automotive industry.

As the Auto30Club celebrates achieving gender representation goals five years ahead of schedule, these awards serve as reminders of the ongoing journey toward equality and the importance of acknowledging those who lead the way. Congratulations to Gemma Benbow and all the recipients of the 2026 Inspiring Automotive Women Awards for their extraordinary achievements.