The CEO of the National Franchised Dealers Association Sue Robinson was awarded the Sue Brownson Award for Outstanding Leadership in the automotive industry.
The award was created in honour of former President of the IMI, the late Sue Brownson OBE who made an outstanding individual contribution to the automotive industry. The award was presented at the Institute of the Motor Industry’s (IMI) Annual Dinner and Awards 2025.
Robinson has lobbied the government on all issues impacting UK dealers since she took on the top job at the NFDA in 2006.
Robinson said: “I am deeply honoured to receive the Sue Brownson Award for Outstanding Leadership in the automotive industry.
“My sincere thanks to the IMI and Julia Muir for presenting the award, as well as to the entire industry for this recognition, not least to Sue Brownson who was my mentor in the industry.
“The automotive sector is an incredible industry to be part of, and throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working alongside many inspiring and influential figures.
“From my early days as a press and policy officer at the RMIF to becoming Chief Executive of NFDA in 2006, I have been committed to elevating the profile of the automotive retail sector with both the government and the media. My focus has always been on ensuring a strong, constructive relationship between dealers, manufacturers, and the broader UK market.
“Just as I have enjoyed building my career in this sector, NFDA’s employment initiative, Drive My Career, has remained dedicated to championing the industry, raising awareness of its diverse career opportunities, and helping to identify and develop the next generation of talent to lead the sector.
“Despite the challenges of recent years, including the Covid-19 pandemic and Brexit, the automotive industry has shown remarkable resilience. NFDA members, in particular, have demonstrated flexibility and adaptability in navigating these headwinds, reinforcing the sector’s vital role in the UK economy.”
