Automotive Council under new leadership

The Automotive Council, established in 2009 to enhance co-operation between UK government and the automotive sector, has been strengthened with two key appointments.

Adrian Hallmark, Chairman and CEO, Bentley Motors, has been named as industry co-chair, while Arun Srinivasan, head of Bosch Mobility, has been named industry deputy co-chair of the industry-government partnership.

They will work closely with Nusrat Ghani MP, Minister of State at the Department for Business and Trade, to champion the automotive sector and provide a strong voice for industry within government. Key themes of discussion will include technological innovation, manufacturing competitiveness, connected and automated mobility and supply chains.

Hallmark said: “We are in a critical and exciting time for the automotive industry as we transition technologies, infrastructure and skills to create a cleaner future. The Automotive Council has a vital role to play bringing together industry and government behind one goal; to transition the industry to a connected, automated and net zero future while growing economic value in the UK.”

Srinivasan said: “It’s a privilege to take up this position and I’m looking forward to working closely with my colleagues on the Automotive Council and with the Industry co-Chair, Adrian Hallmark. We must ensure we maintain a good dialogue with all the industry’s stakeholders and, in particular, government.”

Meanwhile, Graham Hoare OBE, chief executive officer, MTC, who served on the Council for some 12 years, said: “I would like to welcome and thank Adrian and Arun for taking on the leadership responsibility. It has been an honour for me to have co-led the Council and I’m confident they will continue to drive the automotive agenda at this transformational time.”