
Rygor Group has relaunched its Women in Automotive Journal to mark International Women’s Day 2026, celebrating the stories of women across the automotive sector with the aim to inspire other women and the next generation of female talent to consider a career in the industry.
The refreshed journal brings together real, authentic experiences from women working not only at Rygor, but across the wider UK automotive landscape. The journal features stories from company directors and owners, marketing experts, technicians, charity representatives and many more. Through personal stories, career journeys, reflections on challenges and triumphs, and insight into the breadth of roles available, the journal aims to showcase the opportunities and possibilities that exist within the sector.
Originally launched in December 2025, the Women in Automotive Journal has already gained industry media attention for its cross-industry collaboration and for leading the way on bringing women together as one collective to share their stories. The 2026 relaunch expands the project significantly, featuring more voices, more perspectives, and more women who are passionate about encouraging others to follow in their footsteps.
Jacqui Barker, global OEM strategy/ drivetime podcast host at Keyloop, said: “It’s an honour to be asked to support this initiative, especially given the need for greater representation across the automotive retail industry. The more women feel included and part of a sector, the more exceptional talent we will attract, we don't need to compete with each other, we need to encourage and support. Having read these stories it shows how unique each story is and that the breadth of opportunity is endless. I feel very lucky to have made a career in automotive and hope to see many other talented women succeed.”
Kate Ruberry-Shoemack, director of people & communications at Rygor Group who established the journal said: “I believe automotive is one of the most exciting and innovative sectors, and the main reasons we hear that women don’t consider opportunities in the sector is due to lack of awareness and role models. Thus, we need more women to be able to see themselves reflected in it. This journal exists to show women and girls the real stories behind the roles: the technicians, apprentices, sales professionals and leaders who are already thriving. Representation matters, and by highlighting these journeys, we hope to inspire the next generation to join us.”
To further mark International Women’s Day, Rygor also hosted a cross-industry panel discussion featuring women from across the automotive sector. Panellists shared their experiences, career lessons and insights into how the industry can continue to evolve to attract and support a more diverse workforce. The event was held digitally to ensure full accessibility across the company’s 21 locations plus its home-working team members.
Dal Dosanjh, marketing director Europe Fleet & Maintenance, who contributed her story to the journal and was a panellist at the IWD virtual event held by Rygor, said: “Getting involved really matters to me, because visibility creates access. By sharing real stories and showing what’s possible, we tackle the biggest barrier women face in automotive, lack of exposure. With positive change already underway, this is a real opportunity to shape the future of the industry, bring diverse perspectives, and help more women see they belong and can succeed.”
Rachel Clift, CEO at Ben, said: “We’re proud to have partnered with Rygor on their Women in Automotive journal. This partnership has been about creating a platform where women’s voices and stories are amplified and celebrated across our sector. The work that Rygor has been doing to highlight the varied and rewarding careers available to women in the automotive industry today is admirable and much needed. We wanted to play our part because real progress happens when organisations come together to champion change, support inclusion and showcase strong role models from all backgrounds. By sharing these stories, we hope to inspire the next generation of women to see the opportunities within automotive and feel confident that they belong here just as much as anyone else.”
Speaking on the importance of the initiative, Rygor Group managing director, John Keogh, said: “International Women’s Day is a reminder that our industry becomes stronger when it is more diverse, more inclusive and more accessible. The relaunch of our Women in Automotive Journal is about giving even more visibility to the incredible talent already in our sector and ensuring women know there is a place for them here. This is bigger than Rygor, this is about the future of the automotive industry.”
Rygor continues to invest in programmes and initiatives that support women throughout their careers, including leadership development, enhanced wellbeing policies and mentorship programmes.
The 2026 edition of the Women in Automotive Journal is available digitally through Rygor’s website and will be shared with schools, colleges and industry networks throughout the year as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to building a more inclusive automotive sector.