Wendy Williamson, Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) chief executive, has once again made the shortlist for the 2018 Autocar 100 Great British Women awards, which recognise the most influential British women in the global car industry.
Run by Autocar, in association with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), and backed by BMW, Ford, Jaguar Land Rover, MINI, Nissan and Toyota, the industry’s rising stars were nominated by industry peers, with a judging panel deciding the final shortlist of 100 women, chosen based on seniority and level of influence.
The top 100 were selected from various areas of the automotive industry, including vehicle development, manufacturing, purchasing, retail, marketing, communications, apprentices, motorsport, design and executive.
The overall winner was announced at an awards ceremony in London on 20 June.
This isn’t the first time that Williamson has made the list, as she was also recognised in the 2016 Autocar Top 100 Great British Women.
Williamson’s established career and wealth of experience has gained further formal recognition after she received the ‘Lifetime Achievement’ award at the Car & Accessory Trader (CAT) Awards 2017.
This latest industry award nod further strengthens Williamson’s position as an established leader and expert in the independent automotive aftermarket.
“Great honour”
Williamson said: “I’m delighted to have made the Top 100 list once again, it’s a great honour.
“The IAAF continues to grow in stature and this recognition reflects the positive contributions the federation and its members have made, and will continue to make, to the industry.”
The IAAF represents the largest number of parts distributors and suppliers in the independent automotive aftermarket, having total representation of the trade.
This reinforces the strength of its voice within government departments, increasing its power over legislation affecting the industry.
With the implications of Brexit hitting the industry hard, Williamson is continuing to work alongside similar organisations within the EU to ensure the aftermarket receives the best deal possible.
Williamson is also a vociferous champion of the Your Car, Your Choice (Right2Choose) campaign, urging garages and motor factors to raise awareness of motorists’ freedom to choose where to service their vehicle, as under current legislation, consumers have the right to use any repair workshop for non-warranty work during the warranty period.
For further information about the IAAF, click ‘more details’ below.