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Mar 12 2026
Kia UK is proud to announce Gemma Benbow, People & Organisation Director, as the overall winner of the 2026 ‘Inspiring Automotive Woman of the Year’ Award. The award was presented at the 2026 Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) Awards in partnership with the Automotive 30% Club.
This prestigious award recognises women driving inclusion, culture change, and talent development across the automotive sector. Founded by Julia Muir who presented the award to Gemma, the Automotive 30% Club promotes gender-balanced leadership.
Gemma was one of 24 Automotive 30% Club ‘Inspiring Automotive Women Award’ winners who received their award during a private reception held before the IMI Awards dinner. From this selection of finalists, Gemma was chosen as the overall winner.
Awards judges praised Gemma for her transformative leadership, strategic vision, and her dedication to diversity and inclusion that have reshaped the culture at Kia UK. Gemma has embedded inclusive practices across recruitment, leadership development, partnerships, and workplace culture.
Her impact extends beyond Kia UK; by sharing insights with external automotive partners, she has encouraged cross-industry learning and strengthened inclusive practices across the Kia dealer network. Her work has enhanced Kia’s reputation as a leader in diversity and inclusion within the automotive sector.
A passionate advocate for gender equity, she inspires others to think differently, act boldly, and lead with empathy, serving as a powerful role model for future generations of women in automotive.
Julia Muir, Founder of the Automotive 30% Club and CEO of Gaia Innovation Ltd, said:“Gemma has made an incredible impact at Kia UK, where, as the first and only female director she is not only driving change, but also being the change. She is a transformative leader whose strategic vision and unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion has reshaped the culture of the organisation. She exemplifies the spirit of this award and is a truly inspiring Automotive Woman”
Nick Connor, CEO of the IMI, said:“Gemma is a truly deserving recipient of this award. Her leadership, strategic vision and unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion are helping to reshape the culture of the automotive industry and open the door for the next generation of talent. She is a powerful role model whose passion, empathy and determination to drive positive change perfectly reflect the spirit of this recognition.”
Gemma Benbow, People & Organisation Director at Kia UK, commented:“I am incredibly honoured to receive the 2026 ‘Inspiring Automotive Woman of the Year’ award, and I’m truly grateful to both the Automotive 30% Club and the IMI for this recognition. It means a great deal to be acknowledged by such respected organisations within our sector.
“This award reflects the hard work Kia’s senior management and P&O teams have done to transform the culture of Kia UK, building an environment where inclusion, equity and a genuine sense of belonging are embedded into every part of the employee experience. I’m immensely proud of the progress we’ve made together, and of the positive impact it has had both for our people and for the success of the business.
“I am proud to work for Kia, and I believe wholeheartedly that the company’s achievements are driven first and foremost by the talented, dedicated people behind it. This recognition is as much theirs as it is mine.”
Kia UK congratulates Gemma on this well-deserved honour and celebrates her continued impact in shaping a more inclusive and representative automotive industry.