Daksh Gupta appointed as an IMI vice president

The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has appointed Daksh Gupta, the former chief executive at Marshall Motor Holdings and vice president of Ben, as a vice president of the professional body.

With three decades’ automotive experience, Gupta joins six other IMI Vice presidents who all bring unprecedented hands-on experience, benefitting the IMI community, the wider sector and a new generation of people entering or considering entering the automotive workforce. 

Led by IMI President, Professor Jim Saker, the vice presidents’ knowledge and varying perspectives help the professional body adapt and respond to the challenges and opportunities facing the sector.

Gupta said: “I am hugely honoured and excited to be joining the IMI board as a vice president at such a pivotal time for automotive.

“Accelerating technologies are redefining every aspect of our industry, from manufacturing and sales to vehicle ownership and sustainability.

“Despite these seismic shifts bringing fantastic career opportunities which simply didn’t exist when I took my first part-time job cleaning cars, we face the biggest ever skills challenge. 

“However, the IMI is facing this head on.”

Gupta said the IMI’s Diversity Task Force, formed in 2021, continues to work in partnership with industry colleagues at every level, to create a more inclusive workforce, regardless of sexual orientation, disability and ethnicity. 

The IMI has also launched a new campaign, championed by IMI vice president, Linda Jackson, chief executive of Peugeot, “to debunk the outdated perceptions that go to the heart of our sector’s recruitment challenges”.

He said: “Drawing upon real voices from across the industry, the IMI will be spotlighting the very real career opportunities that exist for individuals throughout society, irrespective of age or capabilities.

“I believe now is the perfect time for me to join the IMI board and use my own voice to share my experiences and drive positive change.”

Steve Nash, IMI chief executive, said: “Daksh’s experience and the counsel that he can provide on a wide range of issues affecting our members will be invaluable.

“Alongside the other IMI Vice presidents, I am confident that Daksh will provide constructive insight and feedback on the strategic actions we need to take to tackle the very big challenges our sector faces.

“From evolving technology and a change in the sales model to the skills gap, we must adapt and evolve to ensure our sector is fit for purpose. Taking a more inclusive approach to recruitment and people development has to be central to that goal.”

Gupta left Marshall last year “to pursue new opportunities” after 14 years at the Cambridge-based retailer.

His departure from the Marshall board came a fortnight after BCA and cinch owner Constellation Automotive Group received the regulatory approvals required from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to complete its acquisition of Marshall.

The IMI vice presidents are:

• Sandy Burgess FIMI
• Daksh Gupta FIMI
• Linda Jackson HonFIMI
• Peter Johnson FIMI
• Ken Keir OBE FIMI
• John Neill CBE FIMI
• Sarah Sillars OBE HonFIMI

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