The motor industry has always been defined by innovation, from engineering breakthroughs to the electrification revolution. Yet one of the most powerful catalysts for progress remains underused: diversity. At Warranty Solutions Group, we believe that when more women are part of the conversation, the industry moves further and faster.
Women influence the majority of vehicle purchases yet still make up fewer than 20% of the automotive workforce and under 10% of executive positions. That imbalance isn’t just a fairness issue; it’s a missed business opportunity. Diverse teams think differently, collaborate better and connect more authentically with customers.
Over the years, attitudes toward women in the sector have evolved. The days of being seen only in administrative roles are behind us; today, more women are shaping strategies, leading teams and driving profitability. Yet progress remains uneven. Persistent barriers, from outdated stereotypes about technical expertise to a lack of visible female role models, continue to hold back progress. To change that, businesses must build inclusive cultures, clear advancement pathways and mentorship opportunities that nurture future leaders.
At WSG, inclusion is embedded in our DNA. Three women sit on our board, many hold senior management positions, and we prioritise emotional intelligence, empathy and empowerment as core leadership values. We want every colleague, regardless of background, to have a voice and a vision for growth.
That’s why platforms like Motor Trader’s Women in the Motor Industry Awards matter so much. They don’t just celebrate achievement – they inspire action. The motor trade is evolving, and as more women step forward with confidence, they’re not just part of the industry’s future – they’re defining it. Women in senior roles are no longer just a tick-box exercise for diversity but are being promoted on merit
Steph Newbery, group director, and Lisa Casey, group director, Warranty Solutions Group (WSG)
