Name: Liz Gray
Company: JCB Skoda
Job: Retailer principal

How did you get into the automotive business?
I started as a part-time accounts clerk at my local Skoda dealer in 1998, moved to JCB Medway Volkswagen in 2000, and then moved up through the ranks.

What does your job entail?
Everything from opening the post to organising events, marketing and advertising and going to brand meetings.

How will your job change over the next few years?
As we develop a medium and long term strategy, I hope to work closely with the brand to capitalise on opportunities.

Other jobs?
Most of my roles outside the industry have been accounts based.

What advice would you give to young people planning to join the industry?
Do their homework.

What is the worst career move you’ve ever made?
An accounts department in the food service industry – whose finances were hanging by a very worn thread.

And the best?
Working within the Volkswagen Academy.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?
Sitting by a pool – sipping champagne! More realistically – running a group of dealerships.

Favourite book
To Kill a Mocking Bird.

Favourite holiday
A lovely week I spent in Crete with my two children last year.

Favourite film
Pulp Fiction or Love Actually.

Favourite music
Currently the Arctic Monkeys.

First car
A Mini-Metro.

Dream car
E-Type Jag – in red.

Luxury item
Manolo Blahniks or Jimmy Choo shoes