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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: Proven leadership in complex organisations, with strong governance and stakeholder management 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. Applications must be submitted by the end of the day on Sunday 15th February 2026.
Chairperson in West Bromwich employer: Oryx Executive Search
Contact Detail:
Oryx Executive Search Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chairperson in West Bromwich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the automotive and mobility sectors. Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meet-ups to get your name out there and make valuable contacts.
✨Tip Number 2
Be prepared for interviews by researching APC & Zenzic thoroughly. Understand their mission, recent projects, and challenges they face. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in leading them.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership experience! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've influenced stakeholders and driven strategic change in previous roles. This is your chance to shine and demonstrate your fit for the Chairperson role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about the opportunity and want to be part of the APC & Zenzic journey.
We think you need these skills to ace Chairperson in West Bromwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through. We want to see how your values align with APC & Zenzic's mission of advancing zero-emission vehicles and connected mobility.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in governance and leadership. We’re looking for someone who can steer complex organisations, so be specific about your past roles and achievements that demonstrate this.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key messages about your skills and experiences are easy to understand.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oryx Executive Search
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the UK automotive and mobility sectors. Brush up on recent developments, especially around zero-emission vehicles and connected automated mobility. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but are also well-informed about the industry.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Chairperson, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and influence. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully guided teams or organisations through complex transitions. Highlight your governance credentials and how you've maintained high standards in previous roles.
✨Build Relationships
This role requires exceptional stakeholder management. Think about how you can illustrate your experience in building and maintaining relationships with senior stakeholders across government and industry. Be ready to discuss specific instances where your interpersonal skills made a difference.
✨Align with Their Mission
Familiarise yourself with APC & Zenzic’s mission and their current initiatives like DRIVE35 and CAM Pathfinder. Be prepared to discuss how your vision aligns with theirs and how you can contribute to enhancing their strategic reach and national impact.
