Arnold Clark Chief Executive and Group Managing Director, Eddie Hawthorne has won the Outstanding UK Leader award at the Autocar Awards 2021.
The award was virtually announced on Tuesday 8th June and was judged by a panel of motoring experts led by editor Mark Tisshaw and editor-in-chief Steve Cropley. The panel were looking for those who stood out in leadership quality, results, resilience and communication during the pandemic.
Eddie was selected for his efforts in guiding the Group thoughout the immense challenges of COVID-19, keeping the company steady and setting it up for future recovery and growth. It was recognised that Eddie's leadership has had a significant impact on both the business and the wider industry.
Autocar Editor, Mark Tisshaw said:
‘The last 14 months have been incredibly tough for car dealerships, with lockdowns and restrictions threatening their future and forcing them to reinvent the way they work. As the CEO of Arnold Clark, Britain’s largest car dealership by volume, Eddie Hawthorne had to battle to secure the future of 200 dealerships and 12,000 staff. His outstanding leadership has helped Arnold Clark to remain in a strong position throughout a truly tough period.’
Chief Executive and Group Managing Director, Eddie Hawthorne said:
'While I'm personally honoured to have my name on the award, I have to say that it has been won not by me, but by everyone here at Arnold Clark, whose hard work and dedication through the toughest of times has served us so well. Thank you Autocar - and above all, thank you to everyone at Arnold Clark, this award is accepted on behalf of you all.'
Watch the awards below to see Eddie accept the award on behalf of Arnold Clark employees: