The inaugural event for Championing Women In Dealerships is just four weeks away.
And we’re delighted to announce Sheridan Ash MBE as the keynote speaker for the first Championing Women in Dealerships meeting. A former Women in Technology, Technology & Innovation lead for PwC UK, Ash received an MBE in 2020 for her services to young girls and women through technology, celebrating her efforts to foster diversity within the tech industry.
At PwC UK she successfully spearheaded initiatives to significantly increase the representation of women in the workforce from 14% to 44%.
Membership of Championing Women In Dealerships is free of charge, and exclusively open to women in any management and leadership roles at dealer groups and dealerships. Find our more and join here.
AM’s Championing Women In Dealerships initiative is sponsored by Assurant, and we’re delighted to have their support.
The inaugural event takes place Thursday, October 15, at Horwood House Hotel near Milton Keynes, and it will bring women from across dealerships and dealer groups together to learn, share experiences and build meaningful connections. More events will be scheduled in 2027 in different regions of the country.
At AM’s Championing Women In Dealerships events, members will hear inspiration and ideas that will help them develop personally and professionally, explore solutions to everyday challenges, and share experiences within this community that will encourage other women to build their careers in this dynamic, rewarding sector.
Why is Championing Women In Dealerships important? Here are some thoughts from a couple of its founding advisory board members:
Amy Lancaster-Hall, group marketing manager at Bowker Motor Group: “From my own experience at Bowker Motor Group, I know just how varied and rewarding a career in the automotive sector can be. But I also think we need to do more to make those opportunities visible, create stronger connections between women across the industry, and help more women see dealership careers as something for them.
“Championing Women in Dealerships feels different because it is rooted in the real experiences of women working in dealerships today. What excites me most about this initiative is its focus on practical support, honest conversations, and genuine relationships. If we can share experiences, learn from each other, and turn those conversations into action, I believe it can make a real difference.”
Jayne Halton, group head of business development at Chapelhouse Motor Group: “I started my career as a sales administrator and, through hard work, determination, and the support of some incredible people along the way, I progressed into senior management. My journey has shown me that careers are built through ambition, resilience, and the courage to take opportunities when they come. With the right support and belief in yourself, there are no limits to what you can achieve.
“I joined the Championing Women in Dealerships board because I want to give something back. I want to help inspire, mentor, and encourage more women to believe in themselves, embrace new opportunities, and build rewarding careers within the motor trade. This industry has given me an incredible career, and I want the next generation to know that there are no limits to what they can achieve. If I can help even one woman find the confidence to take that next step, step outside her comfort zone, or see the opportunities available to her, then being part of this board will have been worthwhile. With the right mindset, the right support, and someone who believes in you, the sky really is the limit. I am proof that with determination, resilience, and a willingness to keep learning, anything is possible.”
