Aston Martin’s President of Americas Laura Schwab will deliver the keynote speech at Autocar’s Great British Women in the Car Industry – Rising Stars event, which will be held in London on 19 June.
Schwab was appointed Aston Martin’s first ever female President of Americas in 2015, having joined the firm from Jaguar Land Rover, where she worked for more than 15 years, holding senior roles in marketing, communications and sales operations.
She will kickstart the afternoon event with the opening address, reflecting on the challenges she has faced and overcome, balancing motherhood and a career and offering advice to the Autocar Rising Stars in attendance.
Aston Martin’s President of Americas Laura Schwab said: “It’s brilliant that Autocar is leading this initiative to identify and inspire future generations of talent. The auto industry is full of creativity and innovation, now more than ever. As one of its few female leaders, I’d always eyed the corner office, but never had a woman to look upon for inspiration.
“I’m humbled at the prospect of presenting to the future of the business – women with proven track records, and commitment to rising through the ranks. Here’s hoping my story encourages more women to begin and to continue their climb to the top of a wonderful industry, where a diverse approach to leadership will be a welcome change to the status quo.
“I have never considered myself as a role model, but I hope I am evidence that women across the car industry can lead. The automotive industry is a wonderful place to be and an inspiring and exciting environment to work – and it will be even more so if its workforce reflects the diversity of society.”
Further presentations and panel debates will take place throughout the afternoon, ahead of an Awards ceremony recognising the top 100 nominees and the winners from each area of the industry. Full details of the speaker line-up will be revealed in due course.
Nominations for this year’s Rising Stars must be registered by 23:59 on 17th April, and can be submitted by candidates themselves, or nominated by their peers. Please enter via this link: www.autocar.co.uk/gbwnomination.
Nominees are also asked to submit information on the following topics for consideration: education and career to date, level of influence in their business, future ambitions and how nominees will achieve them, and achievements which will make nominees stand out above the competition. The supporting evidence for each of the criteria set should be no more than 150 words per section and should be submitted through the entry portal.
The shortlisted winners will be revealed at the ceremony – held in association with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) – in central London on Wednesday 19th June. The afternoon ceremony will run from 1.30pm to 5.30pm.
Space for the event is strictly limited, with priority given to winners and past winners. However, a limited number of tickets should be available. Anyone interested in attending the event should contact Autocar at [email protected].
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