UPG UK & Ireland is promoting gender equality in the automotive aftermarket following the IAAF Gender Balance meeting. Head of marketing Gina Watson said inclusive recruitment practices, such as revising job advert wording and job titles, are key to attracting more women. The company also highlighted the importance of engaging young people by inviting them to industry events like truck racing and trade exhibitions to inspire future talent.
Watson stressed the need to tackle cultural challenges faced by women and to prioritise expertise while supporting diversity. “As a collective, the aftermarket needs to address cultural issues that women face in the industry and work towards genuine gender balance in the office, championing the valuable expertise that women possess, not just because of their gender.
“Both leaders and managers within the industry need to acknowledge expertise first, while supporting diversity. UPG UK & Ireland is maintaining its commitment to working towards a more equal future that offers prosperity for all.”
Meanwhile, the IAAF Gender Balance Council is working to remove entry barriers and expand the talent pool by encouraging businesses to embrace diverse skill sets from outside the industry, fostering a more inclusive and representative sector.
The Council is building a long-term outlook for the sector, aiming to break down barriers to entry and broaden the talent pool available to the aftermarket, as part of its mission to create a more inclusive, representative and progressive industry.
This includes encouraging businesses to embrace diverse skill sets from outside the industry, ensuring a better gender balance for the aftermarket.

