The ‘Elevate’ initiative comprises two leadership development programs designed and run exclusively for emerging and mid-level female leaders within the automotive industry.
The initiative’s Gold Sponsor St.George along with Silver Sponsor Women in Automotive (WinA) are offering fully funded scholarships for women working in the automotive sector to undertake a leadership course with Women & Leadership Australia (WLA).
Fewer than 15% of the total people employed in the automotive industry are female, and women represent only 8% of automotive industry executives. This project aims to help create balance, supporting women so that they can grow and lead in all aspects of the sector.
“At St.George, we believe that a diverse workforce delivers fresh perspectives and drives us to be our best for our customers and our communities,” said Phil Waugh, Head of Auto Finance at St.George.
“We know we need to push for better gender balance in the auto industry, and that’s why we’re proud to partner with WLA on the Elevate initiative.
“This initiative signals a commitment to the development of female talent and provides a pipeline of talented women, capable of filling senior level roles across the industry.”
Both courses are part-time and will commence early next year, and all places on the programs are either fully or partly funded. The programs will be delivered via a range of face-to-face workshops, capability assessments, peer coaching sessions and interactive online workshops.
“With shifting consumer preferences and ever-evolving technology, the automotive industry must adapt by becoming more diverse and better embracing the female workforce in order to reach its full potential,” said Betti Tovishazy, General Manager of Client Solutions at WLA.
“The Elevate initiative is an exciting platform, helping to create a more equitable auto sector. Our programs are proven to increase career opportunities for women within male-dominated industries by teaching invaluable leadership skills and improving their networks.”
All course participants will exclusively be from the automotive sector, allowing for a specialised and tangible learning dynamic as they undertake modules such as Emotional Intelligence, Thinking Strategically and Driving Performance.
Dr. Imogen Reid, Manager of WinA, said, “Women’s lack of representation in the auto industry has been largely unchanged for the last 20 years, and those that are in the sector are over represented in administration and sales related roles.
“The Elevate initiative will work to develop aspiring women to reach the next level of their career by providing the necessary networks and leadership skills to move into more senior positions.”
Expressions of interest close on 29th November. Women working in the sector can find out more and register here: www.wla.edu.au/elevate
