Sarah Cox-Thornley

Having spent my whole career in Automotive, working my way up from a Graduate in the Retail network to my current role as Head of Marketing for Volkswagen UK - I feel now is my time to give back, open doors, and help others fulfill their ambitions.

Twenty-seven years. Five brands. One consistent commitment to making automotive better for women.

As Head of Marketing for Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Sarah launched the YourWagen campaign, introduced a policy prioritising women's safety over cost, and reverse-mentors board members to challenge senior leadership thinking. Her 'Coxy's Café' weekly open-door sessions have become a trusted space for her team to connect and grow.

The numbers behind her people work are striking: four of five mentees promoted, four of six junior hires reaching middle management, and female senior leadership at VWG transformed to 31% through her Empowering Women ENG initiative. A speaker at the Auto 30% Club and accepted member of WACL, Sarah has been proving automotive's doubters wrong since the very start of her career.

What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in automotive?

If you are considering a career in automotive, then I would say go for it! This industry offers so much variety and positive challenge; you can’t get bored! Every Brand has a different culture and something to offer. B2B, B2C, premium, volume, cars, vans! The roles are highly varied too, in a retailer, manufacturer, or supplier. You don’t need to be geeky about cars or technically minded! What is important is knowing your transferable skills and having a can-do attitude. Automotive is always transforming and facing new challenges, so you need to be willing to pivot and embrace change, but that is what makes it dynamic and exciting!

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.

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