There’s More to Motor: IMI Award-Winner Carolyn Bundey
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Carolyn Bundey is a Senior Manager at Toyota GB who's leading the way in campaigning to attract talented people from outside of the automotive industry. By pioneering partnerships with organisations like the IMI, Carolyn is helping identify people who would thrive in their company and encouraging people already in the sector to develop their skills and career.
Award Experience
When Carolyn Bundey first stepped into the automotive industry just two years ago, she never expected her journey to be recognised with an industry award. For her, simply being shortlisted was an honour and winning was an unforgettable surprise. “I couldn’t believe it. I was just happy to be shortlisted and recognised in that way. It was a complete surprise when I did win.”
This recognition was not only a personal milestone but also a professional one. Carolyn explains, “It’s the first time I’ve ever received an industry award, so it was a huge achievement for me personally. It’s lovely to be recognised, but I’m hugely appreciative of the recognition for the teams and suppliers that were involved.” Her words highlight her collaborative spirit and gratitude toward her colleagues, from Toyota’s Strategic Projects Team to creative partners like DMS Media.
Changing Perceptions in the Automotive Industry
As part of her role with the Toyota and Lexus Academy, Carolyn has been at the forefront of initiatives to change how people perceive careers in automotive. “There is such a misconception about working in automotive. I had no idea of the breadth of different types of roles that exist,” she says.
She is particularly passionate about using campaigns to drive inclusion.
"This is an opportunity as an industry to work on driving diversity and inclusion but also being able to showcase those amazing people that already exist within automotive and to tell their stories."Carolyn Bundey
For Carolyn, amplifying real voices and real experiences is what makes campaigns such as ‘There’s More to Motor’ powerful.
The Power of Partnership and Social Media
One of the biggest shifts Carolyn highlights is the move towards social-first storytelling. “The most rewarding part was to see the results we were driving in terms of reach and engagement on social channels – those real voices and stories were resonating with the right audience.” Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube gave Toyota and IMI the opportunity to shine a spotlight on people rather than just products, and the response has been remarkable.
Partnership, too, has been key. Carolyn believes collaboration across the industry is the way forward: “If you can partner as an industry on these activities, it is so much more powerful doing things together and having a shared and consistent message.”
Building the Future of Automotive
Looking ahead, Carolyn sees the challenge and opportunity in breaking down barriers for new generations.
“It’s really important that we shine a light on opportunities for young people, apprenticeships, and those from underrepresented communities. We’re in a hugely competitive environment, so why not create opportunities for all?”
Her message to others in the industry is clear: “Don’t hold back. It is so rewarding and so worthwhile, and people will absolutely see results on the back of it.”
Carolyn Bundey’s story is not just about personal recognition – it’s about teamwork, inclusion, and shaping the future of an industry. Through her leadership and vision, she is helping to ensure automotive becomes an industry of choice for all.
Discover more about the IMI’s There's More to Motor campaign and add your voice to help us show the world the real people behind automotive.