Lisa Brankin, the Managing Director of Ford of Britain and Ireland, has been crowned the overall winner of the Autocar Great Women Awards 2026. This prestigious recognition places her at the forefront of the UK motoring sector, celebrating her long-standing leadership and strategic impact on one of the industry’s most significant players.
A Career Defined by Steady Ascent
Brankin’s recognition is not merely a reflection of her current title, but a testament to a career built on decades of internal progression. Joining Ford as a graduate trainee in 1990, she has navigated nearly every critical facet of the business. Her trajectory includes roles in:
– Dealer Operations
– Marketing and Consumer Relations
– Communications and Sponsorship
– Sales and Passenger Car Direction
Her rise culminated in her appointment as Managing Director of Ford of Britain and Ireland in 2020, followed by her promotion to UK Chair of Ford’s national sales company in August 2023. This progression is significant because it demonstrates a deep, foundational understanding of the brand from the ground up—a rarity in modern executive leadership.
Strategic Pivot: From Passenger Cars to Commercial Dominance
One of the most critical aspects of Brankin’s leadership has been managing Ford’s fundamental shift in market strategy. Under her oversight, Ford has transitioned from being a traditional leader in the passenger car segment to a specialist focused on light commercial vehicles (LCVs).
This move is a vital industry trend: as consumer preferences shift and electric vehicle (EV) transitions alter traditional sales models, many legacy manufacturers are prioritizing high-margin, essential segments like commercial transport. Ford currently maintains its number one position in this highly profitable sector, a success closely linked to the strategic direction Brankin has helped steer.
Celebrating Diversity in Motoring
The Autocar Great Women Awards, held in association with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), serves a broader purpose than individual accolades. By recognizing 108 female leaders across 11 categories—ranging from vehicle development to PR and talent management—the initiative highlights the growing influence of women in a historically male-dominated industry.
“What makes this even more meaningful is seeing so many brilliant Ford colleagues recognised alongside me,” Brankin stated during her acceptance speech, noting that the collective talent within her organization helps shape the future of the industry.
With this second overall victory, Brankin enters the initiative’s Hall of Fame, joining an elite group of industry leaders including Alison Jones (Stellantis), Helen Foord (McLaren), and Michelle Roberts (BMW).
Conclusion
Lisa Brankin’s recognition marks the culmination of a 35-year journey within Ford, validating her role in steering the company through a major strategic evolution. Her success serves as a benchmark for leadership and resilience within the rapidly changing British automotive landscape.
