Insights by IMI
Nurturing Talent in Automotive
This episode sees Colin Denton, Founder of the North London Garages GTA, and Sarah Sparkes, IMI’s Head of Marketing and Communications, discuss driving genuine inclusion in automotive by breaking barriers and creating equal opportunities.
While inclusion remains a challenge across the automotive sector, Colin and Sarah highlight the progress being made to open doors, shift perceptions, and create opportunities for underrepresented talent.
They also explore what needs to change to ensure the industry builds a truly diverse, inclusive, and future-ready workforce.
Colin Denton, Chief Executive of North London Garages GTA
Colin Denton is Chief Executive of North London Garages GTA, leading apprenticeship training for the motor industry and supporting the qualification of more than 3,000 apprentices over the past 50 years.
Before joining North London Garages GTA, he held senior roles in education and training, including at West Thames College, Hillingdon Training Ltd, and Skillnet Limited, where he managed apprenticeship programmes for major automotive brands such as Mercedes-Benz.
Sarah Sparkes, IMI’s Head of Marketing and Communications
Sarah Sparkes leads marketing and communications at the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), bringing 20+ years of experience in both B2B and B2C, and a passion for brand strategy and integrated campaigns.
Before joining IMI, she held senior roles across manufacturing, distribution and the not-for-profit sector, overseeing brand management and customer communications.
Listen to some of the key topics covered in this podcast:
Read our report: Driving the future towards a more inclusive workforce
The IMI’s latest workforce analysis highlights that the sector supports a wide range of occupations, including technical, manufacturing, retail, and administrative roles.
However, workforce imbalances make it harder to maintain skills, include all groups, and stay competitive.