A feature on Tracy Grist, Account Manager at Close Brothers Motor Finance and Inspiring Automotive Woman for 2021
We were delighted to announce our Inspiring Automotive Women Award winners at our digital ceremony last week, and in recognition of their achievements, we will be sharing their stories in a variety of articles, interviews, and videos on the Inspiring e-zine over the coming months.
Tracy Grist, Account Manager at Close Brothers Motor Finance was an Inspiring Automotive Woman for 2021, but it was with great sadness that we shared the news that Tracy passed away on Tuesday 5 October 2021. Tracy was made aware of her award win before her passing, and we’d like this article to be a fitting tribute to her memory.
Tracy’s colleagues explained why she was so worthy of this award and why they were inspired by her actions.
Tracy was described by her colleagues as an integral part of the team at Close Brothers Motor Finance. She made, and her legacy will continue to make, a great contribution to the Close Brothers Women in Motor forum, helping address gender balance and attract more females into the industry. Tracy worked in the automotive sector for over 30 years and hoped to inspire change, within not only Close Brothers but the automotive sector as a whole.
Tracy was passionate about changing the way women are perceived in the industry and believed that this change starts at school level. As part of this passion, Tracy was both ‘honoured and excited’ to be part of the Automotive 30% Club’s Inspiration for Innovation outreach activities in order to help inspire young people to look to the automotive sector as an opportunity for professional career pathways and share her experience of how she has thrived in the trade. Since taking part, Tracy encouraged others within Close Brothers to get involved and share their advice with the next generation.
Tracy carried out all of these activities whilst battling stage 4 breast cancer, yet remained determined to not let her illness get the better of her and showed true commitment to moving the dial for gender balance and inclusivity. When asked about her involvement in the Inspiration for Innovation Outreach Network, Tracy added: “I want to leave my participation as part of my legacy”.
Tracy was nominated for an IAW Award by a number of colleagues who have been inspired by her actions, one of her nominators added: “Tracy is a beautiful person both inside and out and inspires me every single day through her true grit and determination to not let any barriers get in your way. She has made me realise that life is too short to waste.”
Another added: “Tracy has inspired me to progress within Close Brothers due to her determination to leave her legacy to the trade that Women can thrive in Motor.”
This award serves as a fitting tribute in memory of Tracy and her achievements. Tracy made an amazing contribution to the automotive industry and helped to inspire and encourage many young people and women to join and progress within the sector.