In tough times, get new perspectives

No-one could have imagined how challenging 2020 would be. We knew that there were looming events that would test the industry, but COVID-19 has brought a new dimension. It’s made it even more important to seek out new expertise and know-how.

Like any other business, the IMI needs fresh ideas and perspectives. That’s why we’ve diversified the experience on our board with two new non-executive appointments. 

Dr Esther Hills is Product Testing and Engineering Manager at BP, and Rachel Leech is Engagement Manager at the Rail Safety Standards Board. Both bring a fresh eye, which will help us focus the support you need in a fast-changing world.

As part of her current role, Dr Esther Hills leads an operational powertrain test centre. She’s also spent several years leading a research team developing hybrid vehicle technology at a major automotive vehicle manufacturer and she’s a board member of the Industrial Advisory Board at the University of Birmingham’s Department of Mechanical Engineering.

Rachel Leech brings another perspective for the IMI board with a career spanning a number of membership organisations. At the Rail Safety Standards Board she works with members across the UK rail network, but has also worked for the Open Data Institute helping grow membership, and at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, where she boosted international membership applications as well as managed and developed relationships with multinationals.

When times are tough, businesses expand their outlook, bringing in new ideas and, hopefully, solutions. Our aim is to do just this, and help members through these hugely difficult times. 

There’s already an incredible amount of information, advice and help available on the IMI’s COVID-19 hub, whether you’re a student, member, manager, business owner or centre, and new content is added all the time.

If the IMI can help in any way please get in touch. We’re available on +44 (0)1992 519025, or email us at hello@theimi.org.uk.
 
Look after yourselves and your families.

With our best wishes,

Lesley