Barbara Cox Woman of the Year Award shortlist confirmed

  • The judging panel for the Barbara Cox Woman of the Year Award has confirmed a shortlist of six inspirational women from across the automotive industry.

The award was launched at the beginning of January to recognise a woman in automotive that has shown a commitment to innovation, leadership, and community.


The judging panel met on 18th February to review all the nominations, and has now announced a shortlist of six:


  • Beryl Carney, JCT600
  • Mary Dopson-Taylor, Grosvenor Leasing
  • Carrie Knox, LeasePlan UK
  • Clare Martin, Jardine Motors
  • Sue Robinson, NFDA
  • Sam Watkins, C Walton Ltd

The shortlist was agreed by a prestigious judging panel that included Auto Trader’s Catherine Faiers, Fleet News’ Sarah Tooze, Marshall Motor Group’s Daksh Gupta, and Cox Automotive’s Martin Forbes and Alison Fisher.

Alison commented: “The Barbara Cox Award is named after a business pioneer who served as a Director of Cox Enterprises – Cox Automotive’s parent company in the USA – and recognises a woman who shares the traits and accomplishments of its namesake.

“Based on the nominations we received, it’s clear there are some great role models for women seeking a career in our industry, and I’m delighted to announce such an impressive shortlist.”

“I’d like to congratulate all six of the women that have reached the shortlist, and very much look forward to seeing the winner announced on International Women’s Day on the 8th March.”

The Barbara Cox Woman of the Year Award is part of Cox Automotive’s Women with Drive programme, which aims to inspire women to reach their career goals within the automotive industry.

The winner will receive £5,000 to spend on personal development, and will be invited to be part of the Women with Drive programme over the next twelve months.