SMMT chief Mike Hawes recognised for services to industry

Mike Hawes, the chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), has been honoured as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his contributions to the automotive industry in the King’s Birthday Honours List.

His role has involved fostering the UK industry’s relationships with governments, stakeholders, and the media worldwide, with a focus on making the UK a prime location for the automotive business.

Throughout more than a decade, Hawes has navigated the industry through significant technological, structural, and geopolitical changes. His efforts have been directed at enhancing the global competitiveness and reputation of the UK automotive sector, building consensus among SMMT’s diverse members on numerous issues, from Brexit trade negotiations to the COVID-19 pandemic, global supply chain shortages, the energy crisis, and the transition to net zero technologies.

His work has safeguarded jobs, promoted new vehicle technology’s environmental benefits, and attracted substantial inward investment.

A key challenge for the industry is attracting new talent. Hawes has been a key supporter of Mission Automotive, which helps ex-service personnel find jobs in the sector. He also signed SMMT to the Armed Forces Covenant which received a Gold Award under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, a first for a trade association.