Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Welcome to the EDI Resources Hub

With our Diversity Task Force partners, we've created a one-stop shop for all things EDI-related within the automotive sector. Quickly educate and update your knowledge with the wide range of resources, tools and guidance so you can make a positive change in your workplace. Let's all work together to tackle the challenges under-represented groups face.

We're sure you've heard the term EDI by now, but if not, it stands for equity, diversity and inclusion. It's a movement to change the landscape, giving everyone the opportunities and support they need.

Look here at some of the fantastic and thought-provoking work we have carried out, along with some of the leading employers within the sector.

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IMI EDI Fab Awards 2023

There's More to Motor

Thanks to electrification and autonomous technologies, it’s the most exciting time to work in automotive in a century. Yet there are many misconceptions about the sector which have contributed to a shortfall in job opportunities and record high vacancies.

That’s why the IMI is on a mission to show that ‘There’s More to Motor.’

Our new campaign aims to challenge the misconceptions of the industry head on; champion the sector and drive recruitment and change through a new diverse workforce; and to start plugging the vacancies and skills gaps.

Read more information on the ‘There’s More to Motor’ campaign and to get involved by sharing your voice.

There's more to motor

Featured Resources

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So, why do we need EDI initiatives:

The automotive sector currently has the highest vacancy rate in over 20 years, and the rate is climbing – There are now 25,000 vacancies in the sector.

The IMI carried out extensive research, which highlighted the need for a closer look at how diverse and inclusive the automotive sector is so we can work to tackle the turbulent times that the sector is facing.

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  • 19%

    Of the sector identify as female.

  • 7%

    Are non-white British compared to 11% in other sectors.

  • 5%

    Of senior roles in the sector are non-white British.

  • 14%

    Of the sector have a disability, compared to 21% of the UK population.

 

Source: Stats have been taken from the IMI's Diversity Task Force Report, which can be accessed here.

As well as being the socially and ethically right thing to do, there are compelling business reasons why organisations are prioritising diversity and inclusion:

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    Improved innovation and problem-solving: Diverse teams bring together people with different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, which leads to more innovative ideas and better problem-solving.
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    Enhanced employee engagement and retention: Employees who feel valued and included are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work, leading to better performance and increased retention.
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    Increased access to talent: By creating an inclusive workplace culture, companies can attract a more diverse pool of candidates and tap into a broader range of skills and experiences.
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    Better decision-making: Diverse teams are more likely to make better decisions by considering a wider range of viewpoints and challenging assumptions.
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    Improved reputation: Companies that prioritise diversity and inclusion are viewed more positively by customers, investors, and other stakeholders, enhancing their reputation and brand value.
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    Better financial performance: Research has shown that companies with more diverse workforces and leadership teams tend to outperform their peers in terms of financial performance and shareholder value.

When Professor Saker outlined his idea for the Diversity Task Force, he had a clear vision of what the IMI should be aiming to achieve.

EDI launch

"The automotive sector is facing the most turbulent period of change in over 100 years. The move away from the internal combustion engine towards new power trains, coupled with the rise of what is loosely described as ‘big data’, will inevitably change the products and also the structure and staffing within the whole value chain of the motor industry. There is an increasing need to attract talented people into our sector, although the evidence shows that we are not seen as an attractive place to work.

 

The sector in the UK has been typified in the media and public perception as employing predominantly white men. If we are to progress as a sector, we need to draw in great people from the whole breadth of society, irrespective of ethnicity, gender, or perceived ability."

 

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Diversity Task Force

The IMI Diversity Task Force was founded in 2021 and set out to bring the issue of diversity and inclusion to the top of the agenda.

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EDI Resources and Tools

Take a look at the latest resources, tools, and much more. There is something for everyone, no matter where you are on your EDI journey.

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Case Studies

Hear from those in our sector about their lived experiences and why initiatives like those proposed by the Task Force are so crucial.

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How to get involved

There are so many ways to get involved with all of the great work being done. Take a look now and see where you can add real value.

Join us on our journey to a better automotive sector by signing your pledge

Pledge your commitment to making a positive change today! Join others who have already pledged to make a commitment to positive change and improving inclusion and diversity for all. You can join us on the journey, we'd love to have you.

Sign your pledge now