Dr Andy Palmer CMG is a chartered engineer and automotive executive. Having served in leadership positions at both Nissan and Aston Martin, Andy has led transformational change at two of the world's most recognisable businesses in the industry.Andy started his career as a 16-year-old Apprentice and then Project Engineer, before joining Austin Rover in 1986, culminating in his appointment to Chief Engineer for Transmission Engineering & Manufacturing.
In 1991, Andy joined Nissan and held a succession of positions, including Program Director for Light Commercial Vehicles, Senior Vice-President, and Executive Vice-President before being appointed Chief Operating Officer in 2013.At Nissan, Andy is best remembered for transforming the product line-up, but was also responsible for Business Strategy and Product Planning, Global Sales & Marketing, IT, and the company's Electric Vehicle and Battery business. He was also Chairman of Infiniti. During this time in Japan, Andy was credited with pioneering ground-breaking technologies, including leading the development of the Nissan LEAF electric car.
In October 2014, Andy was appointed CEO of Aston Martin Lagonda. At Aston Martin, Andy oversaw the launch of four core car models with nine derivatives, including the development and launch of the DBX, the company's first foray into the growing Luxury SUV market. This led to the company opening a new manufacturing facility in South Wales, UK. Andy's time at Aston Martin coincided with unique business conditions, including navigating Britain's withdrawal from the European Union and the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, he was also instrumental in moving the company towards a mid-engined car bloodline, with the creation of the Valkyrie to be launched in late 2020.
In 2012, AutoExpress voted Andy into their Hall of Fame as the “Most Influential British Person in the Global Automotive Business” and in 2018, AutoExpress named him"Person of the Past 30 Years". In 2021, Andy was appointed CEO and Executive Vice Chairman of electric bus maker. Switch Mobility (formerly Optare). Andy oversaw an investment in Switch that saw it valued at $1.8 billion, making it a unicorn. In the same year, Andy was also given the 'Men as Allies' award by the Women's Engineering Society. Beyond the boardroom, Andy is a licensed race car driver, advises the UK Government on export matters, and founded a charitable foundation to fund apprenticeships for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. He was also made an Ambassador for the COP26 Business Climate Leaders campaign.
In 2014, he was appointed Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George in the New Year Honours for services to the British automotive industry.
