IMI Welcomes in New Era with Board Refresh Chaired by Graeme Potts

New leadership team committed to championing talent, tackling the skills gap, and powering the IMI into its next century

The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has today confirmed the appointment of Graeme Potts, CEO of Eden Automotive and Trustee and Chair of the Audit Committee for BEN, as its new Chair of the Board, alongside the addition of Adrian Wallington BSc FIMI, former Commercial Director at Marshall Motor Group and current Chief Commercial Officer at Huws Gray Ltd, as a Non-Executive Director (NED). 

Graeme brings a wealth of sector experience with a proven track record in automotive retail, having founded Eden Motor Group in 2008. As Chair, Graeme will play a critical role in guiding the IMI’s long-term vision and working closely with the Executive Team to ensure the organisation continues to be a trusted voice for automotive professionals.

On his announcement, Graeme said, “I am delighted and honoured to have been appointed as Chair of the IMI and I look forward to leading a newly constituted Board in the exciting next phase. In this phase, the Institute's legacy of pursuing professionalism and increased qualifications and skills throughout the automotive sector is being remodelled to reflect our tremendous industry’s changing needs.”

The IMI is also pleased to welcome Adrian Wallington BSc FIMI, who has extensive automotive experience as the former Commercial Director at Marshall Motor Group. Adrian will further strengthen the Board’s capability to support the sector's evolution and ensure that IMI members’ interests remain front and centre.

“I am delighted and proud to be joining the board of the IMI at this pivotal time in its history,” Adrian said. “The opportunity to give back to the automotive sector is something that has been a huge motivation for me.”

“The automotive sector is changing”, added Daksh Gupta, IMI Vice President and Chair of the Nomination Committee. “The IMI needs to change with it to remain relevant. We must help the sector attract, recruit and retain the right people to close the skills gap. And we must empower the sector to be fit for the future. This Board, led by Graeme Potts and a new team of Non-Executive Directors, many of whom will devote significant time to their roles, will ensure the IMI is here for the next 100 years.”

These appointments mark the start of a significant refresh of the IMI Board. Over the coming weeks, the IMI will announce nine further Non-Executive Directors - a ‘dream team’ of experts from across the industry and beyond - who will bring fresh perspectives, deep sector insight, and a shared commitment to securing the future of the automotive workforce.