Daniel Dawson named world’s top Ferrari technician for second year

Motor retail group JCT600’s Daniel Dawson has been crowned the world’s top Ferrari technician for the second consecutive year at the 2023 Ferrari Testa Rossa Awards.

The world finals were held in Maranello, the home of Ferrari where 12 shortlisted finalists for different categories were invited to compete.

The award recognises pushing boundaries, solving challenges, and proving that excellence is not just a goal but a habit.

Master technician Daniel has worked with JCT600 for over 18 years, joining when he was just 17 as an apprentice. David Hannam, Daniel’s manager, was also one of the final 12 shortlisted in the Top Service Manager category and narrowly missed out on the podium.

David has worked for JCT600 for 20 years, starting his career as an apprentice technician, and is now aftersales manager at JCT600 Leeds Ferrari.

JCT600 said it was incredibly proud to have two members of the team shortlisted as representation for Ferrari North Europe and participate in the finals.

Daniel said: “I’ve always had a passion for cars, but I didn’t really look into working in the sector straight away, I didn’t know much about apprenticeships when I left school and there wasn’t as much information or awareness at the time. I studied Maths, ICT, and Design and Technology at AS level, but I knew back then that it wasn’t for me.

"After speaking with the college counsellor to discuss options, I found out that the apprenticeship was an option. I applied immediately and had to take some further tests to find out my suitability. I was shortlisted and was successful.”

“Thinking of how well I’d done in 2022, I didn’t think I’d be going to the finals again this year, let alone to go and win it for the second year in a row, which has never been done before!”