Sue Robinson's achievements at NFDA recognised by special honour

Sue Robinson, the chief executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association, has been honoured with a special recognition for her work in the motor industry.

At the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) Annual Dinner and Awards last night Robinson was called to the stage to receive the Sue Brownson Award, an accolade reserved for industry figures who have been driving forward the profile of the industry, named in tribute of the late Sue Brownson who was a huge advocate for the sector and its people when she was chief executive of AM100 dealer group Blue Bell BMW.

Attendees at the event heard how Robinson has been chief executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association since 2006, although she first joined the trade body as a press officer and worked her way up through public relations and policy roles to director of external affairs.

As NFDA CEO she has had numerous achievements, from ensuring dealers' voices are heard during Scrappage Scheme, Block Exemption, the ZEV Mandate and the finance commissions probe, to overseeing the launches of Drive My Career, to highlight roles available at dealer groups, and of Electric Vehicle Approved, to give EV customers increased confidence.

Robinson said in response to the award: "I am deeply honoured to receive the Sue Brownson Award for Outstanding Leadership in the automotive industry. My sincere thanks to the IMI and Julia Muir for presenting the award, as well as to the entire industry for this recognition, not least to Sue Brownson who was my mentor in the industry.

"The automotive sector is an incredible industry to be part of, and throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working alongside many inspiring and influential figures.

"From my early days as a press and policy officer at the RMIF to becoming chief executive of NFDA in 2006, I have been committed to elevating the profile of the automotive retail sector with both the government and the media. My focus has always been on ensuring a strong, constructive relationship between dealers, manufacturers, and the broader UK market."

We at Automotive Management send our congratulations. Editor Tim Rose said: "Sue is not one to seek out the spotlight, preferring the attention to be on the NFDA itself and its work, so this is a very proud moment. She has remained resilient in the face of numerous challenges to our sector and numerous Government comings and goings in her time and, with the motor finance commission issue set to be in court very soon, the NFDA members know she will be at the front to support the sector again.