Name Martyn Mangan
Company Advantage West Midlands
Job Automotive cluster manager
Age 45

How did you get into the automotive business?

I’ve worked in economic development for several years, but the automotive industry has always been my passion. When I saw the opportunity to manage the UK’s biggest regional automotive industry, I instantly applied.

What does your job entail?

I help West Midlands automotive firms gain access to funding through Advantage West Midlands (a regional development agency). I am also responsible for strengthening relationships between automotive companies, the Government and industry professionals.

How will your job change over the next few years?

My role will shift from encouraging R&D to assisting large scale production as hybrid and electric cars become a more common sight on our roads.

Previous jobs?

Started as an R&D engineer in building products before joining the RAF as a navigator. I worked in aerospace economic development before moving into the automotive industry.

What would you tell young people joining the industry?

Do it.

What keeps you awake?

How to best encourage companies to plan long-term rather than focusing on short-term survival.

What business person inspires you and why?

Leonard Cheshire (RAF legend).

Dream car

289 Cobra or Lamborghini Miura SV