Keyloop launches KeyShift to empower women, drive industry change

Automotive technology specialist Keyloop has launched KeyShift, a new Employee Resource Group (ERG) designed to empower women within the company and help drive meaningful change across the automotive and technology industries.

KeyShift aims to enhance professional development, promote advocacy, and create a strong network that fosters collaboration and innovation.

The initiative is led by Jacqui Barker, Keyloop’s director of OEM Strategy and winner of the 2024 Barbara Cox Women of the Year Award, who saw an opportunity to build a formal community where women could come together and support one another.

Commenting on the launch, Barker said: “We need to be more intentional about how we support careers, develop talent, and create opportunities - not just for women in the automotive industry, but across all industries.”

To celebrate the launch, Keyloop hosted a panel event featuring female leaders who have successfully championed diversity, equity, and inclusion in the automotive and technology sectors.

The panel included Sarah Noble, partner in automotive at Deloitte and leader of Women and the Wheel; Sally Foote, chief operating officer at CarWow, who spearheaded WOW Women and led the Confidence Gap research on gender dynamics in the workplace; Rachael Prasher, managing director at Haymarket and founder of Great Women, a movement supporting women’s advancement in business and media; and Vicky Gardner, sales director at Next Gear Capital, chair of Women with Drive.

Barker said: “The launch event gave us the chance to learn from other ERGs and global women’s networks, to share ideas, and inspire action.”

The launch of KeyShift is part of Keyloop’s broader commitment to driving gender equity within the traditionally male-dominated automotive sector. Through this initiative, Keyloop seeks to inspire the wider industry to unlock the untapped potential of women, creating a ripple effect that benefits businesses and customers alike.

“This initiative is about more than empowerment - it’s about transforming the industry,” added Harvey, Keyloop’s CRO.