The IMI has launched its digital campaign, There’s More To Motor, across the UK to change the perception held by school leavers and graduates regarding the motor industry.Those who engage will be directed to employers and recruitment agencies offering vacancies in their area.

IMI CEO Steve Nash commented: “There are currently 218 occupations across the sector, with technological advances – from ADAS and electric to connected motoring and online sales - creating opportunities that go far beyond traditional perceptions of working in automotive. Our new campaign highlights the career opportunities that exist for individuals, whether at the start of their working life or looking for a change in direction.”

The campaign has coincided with the release of the IMI’s latest Automotive Labour Market Briefing which shows a slight improvement in job vacancy rates. 24,000 vacancies are currently on offer, compared to 26,000 at the start of the year, although the sector still fields a vacancy rate 34% higher than the average across all other industries.All automotive occupations saw increasing job vacancy postings, peaking at the start of Q2 2023. The most in-demand professions are Vehicle Technician, Mechanic and Electrician, up 32% year-on-year.

Steve Nash added: “We have noticed that management, leadership and sales skills are less frequently requested now than a year ago, with a greater number of vacancies focused on core skills. It could be that this reflects a fall in the number of management roles advertised, but it could also simply be because of an urgency to fill roles that require those core skills. Also reflecting the urgency is the rising number of postings for apprenticeships, as well as increasing salaries.”

For more information, visit: https://tide.theimi.org.uk/equity-diversity-and-inclusion/more-to-motor