Leadership change: Nick Connor joins IMI as chief executive

The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has appointed seasoned automotive leader Nick Connor as its new chief executive officer. Connor will officially take up the post on 18 August 2025, bringing three decades of global OEM and retail experience to the professional body at a time when skills, technology and net-zero goals are reshaping the industry.

Leadership for a Changing Industry

Connor succeeds Steve Nash and inherits an organisation facing unprecedented upskilling demands as electric, connected and autonomous vehicles accelerate into the mainstream. The IMI’s remit, setting professional standards, qualifications and training, places the new CEO at the heart of the sector’s talent pipeline.

Graeme Potts, chair of the IMI board, welcomed the appointment, saying:

“We are thrilled to welcome Nick to the IMI. His energy, experience and vision for the future of the organisation and the automotive sector are exactly what the organisation needs as we continue to champion the people who keep our sector moving forward.”

Extensive Global Experience

A qualified lawyer by training, Connor previously served as:

• Global CEO, Polestar
• Head of the APEC region, Volvo Cars
• Managing director, Volvo Cars UK and Australia

This breadth of board-level management across premium and EV-focused brands equips him to navigate the IMI’s strategic priorities, from high-voltage safety accreditation to diversity in apprenticeships.

Why the Appointment Matters

• Skills gap pressure – The UK must train an estimated 90,000 technicians to work safely on EVs by 2030.
• Regulation and compliance – Incoming standards on battery repair, ADAS calibration and cyber-security require consistent professional benchmarks.
• Global competition – Fresh leadership can help UK service providers remain competitive against international training frameworks.

Connor acknowledged these challenges, commenting:

“I am very excited and proud to be joining the IMI at such a critical point for the automotive industry and our members. I look forward to ensuring that our members’ interests are robustly represented and that we continue to grow the IMI’s influence and portfolio of services to meet the requirements of a fast-changing automotive landscape.”

Next Steps for IMI

• Conduct a strategic review of EV skills pathways and funding mechanisms.
• Expand international recognition of IMI qualifications.
• Strengthen industry partnerships in ADAS, battery repair and sustainability.
• Advocate for refreshed apprenticeship incentives ahead of the Autumn Statement.

Connor’s official start date, 18 August, allows a summer handover period to align the board and executive team on these priorities.

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Tagged with: IMI, Nick Connor, automotive skills, industry leadership, Polestar, Volvo Cars, chief executive, UK automotive, EV training

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