The Role of Women in the Automotive Industry
Recognizing the importance of diversity in driving innovation and showcasing the breadth of opportunities available is an integral part in building organizational cultures.
On this special day, International Women’s Day, I can’t help but reflect on the progress, experiences and perspectives that can be witnessed within the automotive industry.
With every passing year, we’re seeing increasing numbers of women, from all walks of life and from different backgrounds, drive change from within the industry. From sketching, designing and manufacturing cars, to developing fully-fledged marketing programs and even becoming the face of a brand.
The reputation of the motoring industry for being entirely male dominated is slowly shifting. I started my automotive career in 2013, and back then I wouldn’t have imagined that at 33 years of age the automotive business would be where I’d be enjoying a successful and fulfilling career. I’ve encountered numerous challenges – that is certain – but I’ve also been presented with incredible opportunities. Here are my takeaways for women who already are in, or aspire to join this exciting industry:
• Do not be afraid to chase your passion – even if that passion lies in a male-dominated industry. Believe in what drives you and in the purpose of what you want to achieve. Trust your inner hunch and try to eliminate all the unnecessary exterior noise.
• Dream big! If you have a vision for your career, for your work and for the brand you’re working on, do not hesitate to dream big. Surround yourself with people and peers who will help guide you and who will help make your dream become a reality.
• Be curious and always be hungry to learn more. The industry is vast, it is ever-changing, ever evolving and there is always room to be flexible, to try new things and to better communicate with each other as well as with our consumers.
• Be yourself and celebrate all milestones enjoyed by fellow women, whether they be inside or outside the industry. No matter how small, no matter how seemingly insignificant and no matter how large either. Don’t try and copy behaviours that have not served you well. Always stay true to yourself.
It is such an exciting time to be a part of not only this region but also this industry. The field is vast, filled with creative, innovative, and thought-provoking opportunities and I cannot wait to see even more women – diverse types of women: young women, mature women and women from different backgrounds – become pioneers in the automotive industry.
Lara Sous
Head of PR & Brand Communication at MG Motor Middle East
