IMI mourns death of Richard Hutchins

The Institute of the Motor Industry has paid tribute to Richard Hutchins, its skills competitions manager, who has died.

In a statement, the IMI said: “Our deepest condolences are extended to Rich’s wife, Helen, and children, Thomas and Francesca, as well as his wider family and friends."

He died last week, peacefully and surrounded by his family.

The IMI is compiling a condolences book - anyone who wishes to make a tribute can send it to ceooffice@theimi.org.uk.

Its statement continued: “Rich leaves a massive gap in the lives of everyone involved in the IMI skills competitions.

“He was a fantastic colleague and friend and a highly valued member of the IMI family, known for his contagious smile, glass half full attitude and deep passion for supporting young people develop their skills and confidence.” 

Hutchins joined the IMI in February 2020 as its skills competition manager, working with World Skills UK, having been a judge prior to this.

He joined after working with NPTC Group of Colleges in Wales, where he had mentored hundreds of apprentices.

“His passion was not only automotive, but the fantastic people who drive our sector forward,” the IMI added.

“This loss will be deeply felt across our organisation, by the hundreds of people he inspired and supported at the start of their careers, many of whom have gone on to great success, as well as across the wider automotive and WorldSkills community.”