SMMT Communications Manager Janet Wilkinson was presented with an MBE today for services to the Motor Industry and Charity.
Janet joined SMMT (The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders) in 1974 and has spent most of her career in communications for the sector, where she has been responsible for many of SMMT’s activities and events that promote the automotive industry to thousands of people in the UK and around the world. These include the British International Motor Show, the Commercial Vehicle Show, the SMMT International Automotive Summit and SMMT Test Days.
Janet is also a Trustee of the Guild of Motoring Writers’ Benevolent Fund and, significantly, Chairman of the charity Women on the Move Against Cancer (WOMAC), raising funds and awareness for a variety of cancer charities. She is due to leave SMMT in December after more than 40 years at the organisation.
After receiving her award from The Princess Royal at Windsor Castle, Janet said, “I am so proud to receive this honour; it’s a lovely way to end my time in an industry which I have enjoyed immensely. SMMT is a unique and exciting place to work with a wide variety of different activities, which has enabled me to fulfil many roles in so many different places! One of the most rewarding aspects of my time at SMMT is seeing many colleagues starting their careers here and going on to successful roles in the industry.
“I have been fortunate to work with some wonderful people over the years, people who have helped me enormously so I have always tried to give something back to an industry that has given me a fantastic career.”
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “Janet has worked tirelessly for SMMT and our members across the broad spectrum of the British automotive industry. She will be missed by all who have worked with her and benefitted from her knowledge and experience. This award is richly deserved, and a fitting end to a life’s work devoted not only to the industry, but to a number of charities, especially WOMAC, for which she has given so selflessly.”
