IMI opens nominations for expanded 2027 Annual Awards
7 October 2026 
The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has opened nominations for its 2027 Annual Awards, with three new categories introduced for the coming year.
The IMI Community Champion, Further Education College of the Year and Future Leaders awards join five existing categories, taking the total number open for nominations to eight.
The new awards are intended to recognise those volunteering their time to support the automotive industry, further education providers addressing the sector’s skills challenges, and emerging industry leaders.
The Future Leaders Award, sponsored by IMI Vice President Daksh Gupta, will recognise high-potential managers who can demonstrate leadership, innovation and measurable business impact early in their careers. Customer focus and operational excellence will also be considered, alongside candidates’ potential to progress into senior leadership.
The winner will receive 12 months of mentoring from Daksh Gupta and a £2,000 bursary.
Nick Connor, CEO of the IMI, said: “Every year we put a spotlight on those whose work is making a real difference, whether that’s developing the next generation of talent, raising professional standards or leading innovation across the sector.
“Being recognised by the IMI is a mark of excellence that demonstrates real impact. We urge employers, colleges, training providers, businesses and individuals from across the automotive community to review the categories and submit nominations so that we can celebrate the outstanding people and organisations helping our industry thrive.”
The winners will be recognised at the IMI Annual Dinner on 10 March 2027 at the InterContinental London, Park Lane. The evening will also see the recipients of three IMI bursaries announced.
Award categories for 2027
NEW – IMI Community Champion
NEW – Further Education College of the Year
NEW – Future Leaders Award sponsored by Daksh Gupta
Apprentice of the Year sponsored by Delphi
Learner of the Year sponsored by Milwaukee Tools
Partner of the Year sponsored by Autotech Group
The Be You Award: Championing Inclusion
International Centre of the Year
In addition to the open categories, the three bursaries to be awarded are Fellowship of the Motor Industry Bursary, IMI Bursary, and IMI Bursary in Richard Hutchins’ Honour
Other supporting sponsors for the IMI Annual Awards and Dinner include Novuna, Everywhen, VARTA and Fellowship of the Motor Industry.
Click here to submit a nomination