Search for next IMI chief intensifies under Daksh Gupta’s leadership

The search is still on for the next chief executive of the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), and Daksh Gupta, IMI vice president and recently appointed non-executive chairman of Hendy Group is driving the recruitment process.

Gupta is chairing a nominations committee which includes retiring Peugeot chief executive Linda Jackson, BMW Group's general manager of technical and customer service Mark Crandon and JLR chief engineer Arran Simms to find a leader for the professional body, which until last autumn was headed by former BMW executive Steve Nash.

The IMI is offering an annual salary of £150-175k plus benefits for the role, according to the vacancy being promoted by headhunter Berwick Partners, which states: "This is a pivotal leadership role for a visionary executive who can inspire change, enhance commercial growth, and ensure IMI remains at the forefront of industry innovation." The deadline for CEO applications is June 20.

While the nomination committee has already recommended 11 new non-executive directors to join the IMI board - set to be unveiled in the coming weeks - the spotlight remains firmly on finding the right individual to step into the CEO role.

"We are in the midst of the most profound transformation the automotive sector has ever seen,” said Gupta.

"Our next CEO must bring not only a deep understanding of the industry, but also a passion for people, learning, and the future of mobility. This is a pivotal moment - and a unique opportunity for someone to lead a refreshed Board and organisation committed to meeting the evolving skills needs of the sector.”

Earlier this year, Sarah Sillars OBE, who stepped down as IMI chief executive in 2009, returned to the role 16 years later as acting chief executive after its executive chair of the board, Kevin Finn, stepped down from that role.

Finn became executive chair last year following the retirement of Nash, who had been the IMI's chief executive since 2013. In recognition of his role in the industry Nash was inducted into the AM Hall of Fame at the 2025 AM Awards.

The IMI is the UK’s professional body for individuals working in the automotive sector, and supports a 120,000 strong community of members and 73,000 learners across 89 countries.