The subject of how a more inclusive automotive sector could accelerate the switch to electric vehicles is to come under focus in a panel event this week as part of International Women’s Day.

Fiona Howarth, CEO of Octopus Electric Vehicles

Taking place on 10 March, the event is being hosted by online car marketplace Heycar and will look at how a more diverse workforce in the automotive sector could address skills shortages in the run-up to the 2030 ICE ban and make dealerships more inclusive.

Currently, women represent only 20% of the automotive workforce and at the executive level this drops to less than 10%. But research has shown companies in the top quartile for gender diversity on their executive teams are 21% more likely to experience above-average profitability than companies in the lowest quartile.

Heycar’s panel discussion, which will take place 12pm-1pm and be streamed live online, will bring together influential women from the automotive industry to address these issues.

The panel will be moderated by Karen Hilton, chief commercial officer at Heycar, and will include Fiona Howarth, CEO of Octopus Electric Vehicles; Katie Black, joint head of the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV); Kirsten Stagg, head of marketing at Skoda UK; and Moyosola Fujamade, national contract hire relationship manager at Kia.

The discussion will include a look at how the switch to electric vehicles will bring many job opportunities.

Fiona Howarth, CEO of Octopus Electric Vehicles, said: “The EV revolution is the biggest change our roads have seen in 100 years. With it comes great cars, low running costs and huge carbon savings. It also brings great career opportunities and jobs that are full of purpose.

“With more viewpoints and experiences, we can create better products and services that will help us look after our planet. Having more women across the car sector can help us accelerate the switch to electric; and give them a platform for a great career.

“Diversity is key, and it is not restricted to gender. As a growing organisation, we’d love more applicants from all walks of life.”

Heycar’s Karen Hilton added: “We hope this event will showcase the fantastic roles in the automotive sector and give attendees some useful takeaways to effect change in their organisations and the wider industry.”

To register for free for the panel discussion, click here.