Cox Automotive Canada held its fourth Women With Drive event on October 15 at the Mississauga Convention Centre in Ontario, where 125 team members gathered to celebrate the work women accomplish in the automotive industry.
“Gender diversity is essential,” said Maria Soklis, President, Cox Automotive Canada. “Cox Automotive continues to work hard to cultivate and maintain a culture that values true diversity and inclusiveness. We all end up winning, when the most talented and capable people can rise to the top — regardless of what they look like, their religious beliefs, or where they come from.”
People attend the event to receive personal and valuable insights, and to support female successes and aspirations in the workforce. Speakers aimed to empower both male and female team members in attendance, while also seeking to inspire improvement and drive personal growth.
Janet Barnard, Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer, Cox Automotive, is said to have offered a “motivating” keynote presentation during the event. She discussed subjects like establishing your own Board of Directors; finding advocates and mentors; seeking stretch assignments; being innovative everyday; never quitting — and more.
A panel discussion hosted by Grace Kong, Vice President, Human Resources, Cox Automotive Canada also provided attendees with additional insights. The panelists: Leanne Kripp, Director, Head of Autos, Kijiji; Helen Fotinos, Partner, Dentons Canada LLP; and Mary Liptay, CFO, COO, The Great Northern Auction (TGNA), talked about equality in and out of the workplace. They also discussed the importance of “further developing and supporting the women we meet along the way,” according to Cox Automotive.
Women With Drive has been described as an initiative that offers a “think big” attitude and a space for every voice to be heard.
