Three dealership training specialists from Mitsubishi’s Training Academy have been honoured by the Institute of the Motor Industry’s chief executive, Steve Nash.

Chris Manning and Neil Clapham were presented with Fellowship of the Institute of the Motor Industry (FIMI) certificates – the highest level possible – while Glyn Lewis was made a Member of the Institute of the Motor Industry (MIMI) in a special presentation at the brand’s UK headquarters in Cirencester.

Achieving FIMI status requires a Level 5* national qualification or equivalent and five years' experience in senior management.

Manning, aftersales training manager, and Clapham, sales training manager, each underwent a four-hour interview and questions from the IMI Awarding Panel as part of the final assessment.

Apprentice programme controller Lewis was recognised for his achievements in training and apprentice programmes.

Manning said: “I’m delighted to have my industry achievements recognised by the IMI and honoured to be elected as a Fellow. It ties in perfectly with the strategy we are developing for the Mitsubishi dealer network to offer IMI Quality Assured Programmes and accredited training.

“I’m now looking forward to helping many more of our dealer aftersales staff develop through to IMI Member level and become Registered Professionals, as this can only serve to enhance our provision of the highest levels of customer excellence to our customers.”

Clapham added: “After working in the industry for 22 years it’s fantastic to be recognised by the IMI with its highest accolade and to be included on the professional register.

“Mitsubishi’s future plans of IMI Quality Assured Programmes and accredited training will help develop our sales staff to achieve their very own industry-recognised qualifications, ensuring our sales staff feel even more valued by the brand and have a clear career development path.”

Lewis, an apprentice programme controller, said: “I am absolutely delighted to be recognised for my experience and achievements after working in the automotive technology for more than 25 years and I feel privileged to be elected as a Member of the Institute of the Motor Industry.”