Professor Jim Saker appointed as new President of IMI

Linda Jackson and Sandy Burgess also confirmed as Vice Presidents as automotive professional body extends experience to support sector for challenging times ahead

The Institute of the Motor Industry’s Annual General Meeting yesterday (27th October 2020) saw the announcement of its new President, Professor Jim Saker, as well as the appointment of two new Vice Presidents: Linda Jackson (PSA) and Sandy Burgess (SMTA).  Kevin Finn and Tony Tomsett were also confirmed as Chairman and Honorary Treasurer respectively.

Often found in the Automotive Industry Power 100, Professor Jim Saker is no stranger to the challenges and opportunities faced by the automotive sector. As Director of the Centre for Automotive Management in the Business School at Loughborough University and a long-standing Professor of Retail Management he has worked with government, employers and individuals in the sector for more than 30 years. He brings another perspective to the IMI as the automotive industry faces a myriad of challenges, from adjusting to the changing dynamics of the economy in the aftermath of COVID-19, to equipping itself for the mobility revolution including connected and autonomous motoring and zero emissions.

Commenting on his appointment Professor Jim Saker said: “I don’t think there has been a more exciting – and challenging – time to be involved with the automotive sector’s sole professional body. With a clear focus on empowering those who work in automotive, the IMI has an immense role to play in future-proofing individuals, employers and even government.  The commitment the IMI has shown to creating a professional standard for those working on high voltage, connected and autonomous vehicles in the form of IMI TechSafe has been second to none. It has also remained a determined advocate of apprenticeships in the sector, helping employers capitalise on the recruitment opportunities and attracting the next generation of workers.

“I look forward to working with Chief Executive, Steve Nash and the Executive Board to ensure the IMI remains front and centre whatever the conversation about how the automotive sector can make a positive difference to people’s lives.”

Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI added: “We would like to thank Graham Smith, OBE, FIMI, who has made an invaluable contribution to the IMI over the last 7 years as President. He has brought a wealth of industry knowledge to his role as well as representing the IMI to key external stakeholders at the highest level. 

“We are very excited by how Professor Jim Saker will continue Graham’s great work, placing skills at the forefront of good practice in the automotive retail sector. There is no question that the next few years will present all those involved in automotive with some big challenges.  But we believe there are big opportunities too. And we have a clear roadmap to ensure the IMI is well positioned to support individuals, employers and trainers to exploit the opportunities.”

The 2018 winner of the IMI Sue Brownson Award for Outstanding Leadership in Automotive, Linda Jackson, Executive Vice President, Brands Portfolio Development, Groupe PSA and Sandy Burgess, Chief Executive of the Scottish Motor Traders Association were also confirmed at the AGM as Vice Presidents bringing further hands-on automotive experience to the IMI.