Cox Automotive is inviting nominations for the Barbara Cox Woman of the Year Award 2020 as part of its efforts to “shine a light on successful women” working across the sector.

JCT600’s head of commercial vehicles, Beryl Carney, received the 2019 award in recognition of her exceptional leadership skills demonstrated through the design and delivery of a highly successful business strategy which succeeded in transforming the fortunes of the AM100 group’s Volkswagen van centres.

Now in its second year, the award has once again been launched in partnership with AM and its sister title Fleet News to recognise a woman that demonstrates a commitment to innovation, leadership or community.

Alison Fisher, chief people officer at Cox Automotive, said: “Promoting diversity in our industry is a key part of our commitment to building high-performing teams at Cox Automotive.

"The Barbara Cox Woman of the Year Award will shine a light on successful women that have made a significant impact on the industry, and hopefully inspire others to do the same.”

“The award is part of our fantastic Women With Drive programme, which offers professional and personal development, peer-to-peer mentoring and networking opportunities for people across the automotive sector.”

The award is named for Barbara Cox, the business pioneer who served as director of Cox Enterprises, Cox Automotive’s parent company in the USA, and will be presented to someone that is an inspiration or role model for women pursuing a career in automotive.

The nomination window will remain open for entries until January 17, 2020, and will be reviewed by a panel of judges that includes Fleet News deputy editor Sarah Tooze, Auto Trader chief operating officer Catherine Faiers, Cox Automotive UK chief executive Martin Forbes, Marshall Motor Group chief executive Daksh Gupta, and last year’s winner, JCT600’s Beryl Carney.

The winner will be announced on March 6, 2020, at a special Women with Drive event to celebrate International Women’s Day.

As well as the award, she will receive £5,000 to spend on her own personal development.

Nominations for the Barbara Cox Woman of the Year Award 2020 are invited from across the automotive industry, and should be entered via www.womenwithdrive.co.uk/barbara-cox-award