Inspiring women to connect and succeed in the automotive industry

INSPIRING WOMEN TO CONNECT AND SUCCEED IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY BY DREAMING BIG AND REACHING GOALS

Women with Drive exists to celebrate the work of women in the automotive industry. It is an inclusive movement built to support female achievements, aspirations and successes, with a ‘think big’ attitude and a space for every voice.

Since our launch on International Women’s Day 2016, our regular events have empowered women and men in the Cox Automotive team, championing equality and ambition both in and out of the workplace.

We will continue to promote a diverse, positive workforce that has the power to inspire every member, and gives every woman the opportunity to reach her full potential.

Sara Sloman announced as fifth Barbara Cox “Woman of the Year” 

 

The Barbara Cox Woman of the Year 2023 is Sara Sloman, Chief Strategy Officer at EV fintech business Paythru and Director of The EV Café. 

Sara Sloman,

Chief Strategy Officer at Paythru and Director of The EV Café

2023 Highly Commended

Erin Baker,

Editorial Director at
Auto Trader

Kate Ruberry-Shoemack,

Head of People & Communication
at Rygor Commercials

About the Barbara Cox Award 2023

Sara received the prestigious award at a special ‘Women with Drive’ event, attended by over 150 guests and organised by Cox Automotive Europe to celebrate International Women’s Day.

 

Sara was one of six women shortlisted from over 50 entries by a judging panel which included previous winners Caroline Burnell and Lorna McAtear. 

 

 

Announcing the winner, Martin Forbes, President – Cox Automotive International said: “We received so many strong nominations for this year’s Barbara Cox Woman of the Year award, choosing just one winner was always going to be an incredibly difficult job for our panel. But their duty was to do exactly that, and Sara is very deserving of this accolade.”

Commenting on her win, Sara said: “I’m overwhelmed to have won this award and promise here and now to pay it forwards and use the profile this brings to continue to embrace equity for women in the automotive sector. To be a part of this process has been inspiring. While on one hand it’s been about celebrating individuals, on the other, it’s been about collaboration and recognising the opportunity we have. It’s given us all an opportunity to take stock of what we’ve achieved and to create new connections. The six finalists have today pledged to work together and push forward as a group and I can’t wait to see what comes next!”

Our testimonials

Thought provoking speakers and exercises. Meeting so many inspiring people across our sector that share the same anxieties as me.

Estelle Rossiter

It’s good to see so many women from around the business networking and supporting each other. I believe it highlights that we are all keen to learn and help ourselves as well as others.

Vicki Haley

I enjoy the opportunity to network with people from other sites, external people plus the topics covered make you think about yourself and it’s a lightbulb moment to realise you are not on your own with your thoughts and self-criticism.

Jaci Hubbard

Our values

Equality & Inclusivity

Everyone has the right to powerful dreams and exciting opportunities. We embrace all skillsets and identities with fairness, support, and a focus on the future.

Inspiration & Empowerment

Women with Drive is about everyone fulfilling their potential and reaching their ambitions. We inspire women in our industry to become brave, powerful individuals.

Celebration & Success

We believe in sharing our achievements, enjoying our successes, and coming together to encourage everyone to reach that little bit higher and further than before.

Businesses that have pledged support

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