Meet our 2026 shortlist
Find out more about this year's nominees for the Barbara Cox Award
Gemma Hepple
Being shortlisted for the Barbara Cox Award was a surprise, but also made me feel very honoured to be shortlisted, as it is such a prestigious award. It’s one that we always see about every year, and you never think that it's going to be you that's actually shortlisted for it, so it's amazing to be recognised by colleagues in this way.
Gemma Hepple joined Manheim Inspection Services in 2013 on a temporary contract. In January 2026, she was appointed General Manager - a role historically held by men.
In between: every meaningful operations role in the business, earned without shortcuts. Her instinct for innovation was recognised externally with the Innovation Award at The Autos 2023. Her leadership philosophy - take risks on yourself, step into the unfamiliar, say yes to what feels daunting - is not something she inherited. It is something she built, rung by rung, and now actively passes on to others around her.
Gemma's story is proof that potential and a temporary contract can take you further than anyone expects.
What's one thing you're most proud of so far in your career?
I’m most proud of the journey I’ve taken and the way I’ve grown alongside the business. Starting with no clear direction on what I wanted to do and progressing into a senior leadership role has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m especially proud to have done so in a way that reflects both mine and the organisation's values.
The support I’ve received has shaped my approach, and I’m proud to now play a role in creating those same opportunities for others. I’m someone who actively leans into challenges and the unknown, even if it is way outside my comfort zone. I’ve taken on roles often perceived as “male-dominated” to prove, both to myself and to others, that this is not a limitation but a mindset. I strongly believe that women in our industry can achieve anything they set their minds to, and I hope my story gives others the confidence to do the same.
Celebrating the women of the automotive industry
Inspiring women to connect and succeed in the automotive industry by dreaming big and reaching goals since International Women’s Day 2016.
