Hayley Pells is Government Affairs Lead at the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), where she leads engagement with government and policymakers on issues affecting the UK automotive workforce. With more than 20 years’ experience in the automotive sector, Hayley brings a unique perspective shaped by both frontline industry experience and policy leadership.

Hayley began her career as a vehicle technician and MOT tester before moving into policy and advocacy, giving her a practical understanding of the challenges facing businesses and technicians across the sector. At the IMI, she works closely with government, industry partners and skills bodies to influence policy on workforce development, skills shortages, and the transition to new vehicle technologies.

She is also the author of four internationally published technical textbooks on automotive technologies used in training. A passionate advocate for improving access to skills and increasing diversity in the sector, Hayley regularly contributes to national discussions on the future of the automotive workforce and the skills needed to support the transition to advanced technology vehicles.