People & Careers

Leadership change: Nick Connor joins IMI as chief executive

Published:

July 22, 2025

Author:

James Lockwood

Former Polestar boss Nick Connor takes IMI helm.

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 qualified benchmarks.
Global competition – Fresh leadership can help UK service providers remain competitive against intern

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