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- Tasks: Lead strategic direction and governance for APC & Zenzic, shaping the future of UK automotive.
- Company: Join two key players in the UK's transition to zero-emission vehicles and advanced mobility.
- Benefits: Competitive remuneration, flexible working, and a chance to influence national innovation.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of transforming the UK automotive sector and driving decarbonisation.
- Qualifications: Experience as a CEO or Senior Executive in the automotive industry with strong governance skills.
- Other info: Minimum commitment of 15 days per year with opportunities for remote work.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Oryx Executive Search are delighted to be supporting the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC) & Zenzic in the appointment of a new Chairperson. APC & Zenzic are two of the UK's most strategically important industrial and innovation assets, supporting national competitiveness and accelerating the transition to zero-emission vehicles and advancing connected automated mobility. Working in partnership with the Department for Business and Trade and Innovate UK, APC & Zenzic direct substantial public and private investment into research and development, next-generation supply chains, and the advancement of technologies critical to the UK's net-zero and industrial ambitions.
With APC & Zenzic advancing their missions through the landmark DRIVE35 and CAM Pathfinder programmes — a £4 billion commitment to accelerate the UK automotive sector and £150 million in grant funding to strengthen the UK CAM ecosystem — both organisations are entering a pivotal phase. The appointment of a new Chairperson offers a unique leadership opportunity at the forefront of the UK's automotive and mobility future.
The Role
The Chairperson will provide strategic leadership to the APC & Zenzic Board, ensure the highest standards of governance, and work in close partnership with CEO Ian Constance. The role demands a leader capable of influencing senior stakeholders across government and industry, steering organisational priorities, and enhancing APC & Zenzic's national impact and visibility. The Chairperson will play a pivotal role in shaping strategy, supporting the executive team, and ensuring APC & Zenzic continue to deliver exceptional value to the UK economy and its innovation ecosystem.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the Board in setting strategic direction and ensuring robust, effective governance.
- Support, guide, and challenge the CEO while maintaining clear Board oversight.
- Uphold strong financial stewardship, risk management, and organisational accountability.
- Strengthen high-level relationships across government, industry, and wider stakeholders.
- Champion APC & Zenzic's mission, promoting its influence, reputation, and long-term contribution to UK innovation and decarbonisation.
- Oversee Board and committee composition, succession planning, and performance.
Required Experience
- Outstanding governance credentials, sound judgement, and integrity.
- Experience leading complex organisations and navigating substantial strategic or industry transition.
- Senior-level accountability for performance, financial oversight, and risk management.
- Exceptional stakeholder-management capability across government and major industry players.
- Highly developed interpersonal, communication, and diplomatic skills.
- Strong understanding of the UK automotive and mobility sectors and their technological and strategic challenges.
The Ideal Person
The preferred candidate will have served as a CEO, or Senior Executive Director, within a UK automotive OEM or Tier 1 supplier and will bring prior Chair or NED experience. They will be adept at working with government, influential across senior networks, and motivated to enhance APC & Zenzic's strategic reach and national contribution.
Terms
- Remuneration: Information available on request
- Time commitment: Minimum 15 days per year, including approximately eight Board engagements.
- Location: APC Head Office at Warwick University, plus occasional UK travel and remote working.
- Start date: 1 July 2026, with transitional engagement beforehand.
- Appointment term: Up to three years, renewable for a further three years.
Apply via the link below or to find out more, please contact Nic Davis at Oryx Executive Search on 0117 983 7800 or n.davis@oryxes.co.uk. Applications must be submitted by the end of the day on Sunday 15th February 2026.
Chairperson in Newport employer: Oryx Executive Search
Contact Detail:
Oryx Executive Search Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chairperson in Newport
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join forums, and engage on LinkedIn. The more you network, the better your chances of landing that Chairperson role.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or stakeholders, don’t hold back! Share your insights on governance and the automotive sector. We want to see your passion and knowledge shine through.
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework before any interview. Understand APC & Zenzic’s mission and current projects. We need to know you’re not just a fit for the role but also genuinely interested in their vision for the future.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply via our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to follow the process.
We think you need these skills to ace Chairperson in Newport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who you're addressing. The Advanced Propulsion Centre UK and Zenzic are looking for someone with strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of the automotive sector. Tailor your application to reflect how your experience aligns with their mission.
Showcase Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience, especially if you've held senior roles in complex organisations. Use specific examples that demonstrate your governance credentials and stakeholder management skills. We want to see how you've influenced change and driven success in previous positions.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key. Avoid jargon and keep your language straightforward. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point while still showcasing your personality and passion for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us directly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to the exciting future of the UK automotive and mobility sectors.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oryx Executive Search
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK and Zenzic's missions, especially their DRIVE35 and CAM Pathfinder programmes. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in the UK automotive sector and how they relate to zero-emission vehicles and connected automated mobility.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences that highlight your governance credentials and ability to lead complex organisations. Be ready to discuss how you've influenced senior stakeholders and navigated strategic transitions in previous roles.
✨Build Relationships
Demonstrate your exceptional stakeholder-management capabilities by discussing how you've built and maintained relationships across government and industry. Think of specific instances where your interpersonal skills made a significant impact.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and the organisations. Inquire about their future strategies, challenges they foresee in the automotive sector, and how you can contribute to enhancing their national impact and visibility.
