Hayley Pells appointed IMI Policy Manager

14 September 2022  

Avia Autos’ Hayley Pells has taken on a new role as Policy Manage for the IMI. In the position, she will have a key role in guiding the IMI’s lobbying activities, with gathering information and insight for the IMI response to the Competition and Markets Authority consultation on Block Exemption a key early task.

Commenting on the move, Hayley said: “The automotive sector is at a cross-roads as it aims to tackle the current skills shortage, alongside building a future-proof workforce that is ready for significant technological change. It is critical, therefore, that all government policies, from education through to the adoption of new automotive technologies, take into account the full implications on the workforce and employers.

“The automotive sector should be an attractive career destination for the next generation of workers, which means each of the devolved governments driving education policy need to understand the huge potential that exists. It is also vital that we ensure consumer confidence in new automotive technologies, from connected and autonomous to electric and hydrogen, is underpinned by a workforce that has the support to be properly skilled.”

IMI CEO Steve Nash added: “As a business owner and longstanding industry advocate, including being actively involved in the IMI Diversity Task Force, Hayley is well positioned to take the operational lead to implement the IMI policy strategy, in line with research and influencing activities. She knows how the sector works, what’s needed to shift the dial on how it’s perceived as a potential career route, as well as understanding the consumer confidence gaps that must be addressed to ensure new automotive technologies are embraced rather than feared.”