Citroen Global Boss Named Most Influential British Woman in the Motor Industry
Citroen’s Global CEO, Linda Jackson, has been named the most influential British woman working in the motor industry. Car magazine Autocar has compiled the 100-strong list ahead of its annual celebration event.
It’s the second time in three years that Jackson has picked up the outstanding accolade, and just the latest award in her superb 40-year career in the industry. She has been responsible for the resurgence of the Citroen brand, overseeing models such as the C4 Cactus, Picasso and the company’s commercial vehicles.
“Linda’s four-year tenure leading Citroen has overseen a remarkable and meteoric rise for the brand,” says Mark Tisshaw, Autocar editor. “The car industry needs more Linda Jacksons; she’s not only a role model, but an example to women wanting to work in the car industry that the sky is not the limit if you have the talent and determination.”
Jackson received both the overall award and the executive category award. “It’s an honour and testament to the hard work from everyone at Citroen that has helped build on what has been such a successful few years.”
She added: “There is a huge wealth of talent in the sector and it’s a truly exciting industry to be a part of, especially as automotive is one of the most pioneering industries when it comes to future technology. I hope this Autocar award inspires even more women to pursue a career in this industry at all levels.”
Employees from Ford and Renault have both been named in the list of 100 most influential British women in the motor industry. Incredibly, 17 Ford staff members have been included in the roundup, and two have picked up awards. Josephine Payne, manager of Ford’s Craiova engine plant in Romania, won in the manufacturing category, while Sue Slaughter, the Purchasing Director for Ford of Europe, has been awarded the purchasing category honour. Two of Ford’s female apprentices were also recognised for their potential within the industry and for their commitment to promoting STEM (science, technology, English and maths) studies in schools.
The Renault group saw two of their staff nominated. Verity Mercer, the group’s Brand Strategy Manager, and Louise O’Sullivan, boss of DaciaUK, were named in the marketing and executive categories respectively. It’s the second consecutive year that O’Sullivan has been included in the list.
Tisshaw added: “While there are certainly challenges in the car industry, it’s heartening to see such a wealth of outstanding British women thriving in an array of roles and in the most senior positions.
“There is plenty of work to be done but, by highlighting the considerable impact of these women, we hope we can inspire more women into our amazing automotive world.”
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