IMI leadership honour for NFDA’s Sue Robinson

13 March 2025  

The chief executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), Sue Robinson, has been honoured for leadership in the auto sector by the Institute of the Motor Industry.

Robinson (pictured) received the Sue Brownson Award for Outstanding Leadership in the automotive industry at last night’s IMI annual dinner and awards in London.

The award was created in honour of the late Sue Brownson, a former IMI president.

Robinson said Brownson had been her mentor in the industry. She said: “The automotive sector is an incredible industry to be part of, and throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working alongside many inspiring and influential figures.

Opportunities

“From my early days as a press and policy officer at the RMIF to becoming chief executive of NFDA in 2006, I have been committed to elevating the profile of the automotive retail sector with both the government and the media.

“My focus has always been on ensuring a strong, constructive relationship between dealers, manufacturers, and the broader UK market.”

Robinson praised NFDA’s employment initiative, Drive My Career, for championing the industry, raising awareness of its diverse career opportunities, and helping to identify and develop the next generation of talent to lead the sector.

“Despite the challenges of recent years, including the Covid-19 pandemic and Brexit, the automotive industry has shown remarkable resilience,” she said.

“NFDA members, in particular, have demonstrated flexibility and adaptability in navigating these headwinds, reinforcing the sector’s vital role in the UK economy.”