Search starts for Barbara Cox Woman of the Year

Nominations are open for Cox Automotive’s prestigious Barbara Cox “Woman of the Year” Award 2025, honouring inspirational women in European automotive.

Named after the late Barbara Cox – a former director of Cox Enterprises, Cox Automotive’s parent company in the US – the award recognises and rewards women who demonstrate a commitment to innovation, leadership and community within the sector.

Now in its seventh year, the prize sees Cox Automotive Europe once again team up with AM and Fleet News.

Submitted nominations are invited for any woman working within the European automotive industry and are welcome until the closing date on May 16.

The winner will be chosen by a judging panel including past winners and announced at a special event this summer. In addition to gaining recognition across the industry, the recipient will also receive £5,000 to spend on her personal development.

Last year’s winner was Jacqui Barker (pictured), global OEM strategy director at Keyloop, one of six women shortlisted from more than 50 entries.

Barker joined an impressive list of females to win the award, including Sara Sloman, chief strategy officer at EV fintech business Paythru; Caroline Burnell, head of marketing & communications at eStar Truck & Van; Alison Jones, senior vice-president, global circular economy at Stellantis; Lorna McAtear, fleet manager, National Grid; and Beryl Carney, head of VW Commercial Vehicles at JCT600.