Unipart Group Announces the Retirement of Founder and Executive Chairman, Dr John M. Neill CBE, After 50 Years of Distinguished Service

Since 1974, John has been the cornerstone of Unipart, transforming it into a proud British enterprise with a global footprint in 21 countries, with over 12,000 colleagues, and offering an extensive portfolio of products, services, and solutions. Under his leadership, Unipart reported a £1 billion turnover in 2023, alongside a significant increase in profitability, positioning the company for continued growth. This year, Unipart celebrates the 50th anniversary of its brand – a milestone John has been integral in achieving.

John’s tenure is marked by numerous achievements, including the creation of the Unipart brand in the 1970s and 1980s, leading the management and employee buyout from British Leyland, and establishing Britain’s first corporate university, the Unipart “U.” He was a pioneer of stakeholder management in the UK and played a key role in the Tomorrow’s Company inquiry, leading to a visit from HRH Prince Philip to witness these ideas in practice.

John’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation is exemplified by “The Unipart Way,” a testament to his visionary approach. Throughout the years, he has brought a unique blend of vision, expertise, leadership, and passion to the business.

“Working at Unipart has been one of the greatest honours of my life,” said John. “The relationships I’ve built, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the milestones we’ve achieved together will always hold a special place in my heart. I am deeply grateful to my colleagues, business partners, and all our stakeholders for their unwavering support throughout my journey.”

Beyond his professional accomplishments at Unipart, John has made significant contributions to the broader business community. He has been an active member of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), a past President of the Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders (SMMT), and has participated in several government working groups. He has also served on the Court of the Bank of England, and on the Boards of Charter International plc, Midlands Energy plc, Rolls-Royce plc, and Royal Mail Holdings plc. In 1994, John was awarded a CBE for his services to industry. He currently serves as an Executive Board Member of the SMMT and President of the Automotive Leadership Network.

Many B4 members have known John Neill, but few have worked with him as long as B4 Chairman Frank Nigriello, who was Unipart’s Director of Corporate Affairs for over a quarter century.

 “50 years ago, the Unipart brand started with one customer, in one sector,” Frank recalled. “Today, Unipart is a global leader operating across multiple sectors and providing products and services to some of the world’s best companies. John Neill drove that amazing growth and has been an inspiration to Unipart’s current and former employees as well as many business leaders in Britain. He leaves a formidable legacy that is matched by very few others.”

Former Oxfordshire High Sheriff Mark Beard, who is Chief Executive and Chairman of E W Beard Ltd, commented: “John has been an inspiration to me for many years; one event I remember particularly fondly is being part of Unipart’s Mark in Action awards 25 year anniversary in 2014, which became the blue print for our own Prompt & Faultless Deliver awards.  John has set the standard in business innovation, people development and growth in our county – thank you so much for your leadership.”

B4’s CEO Richard Rosser, commented. “Despite their global footprint, Unipart have always remained an ‘Oxford’ company rather than a big name company which just happens to be located in Oxford, as is often the case. Unipart have also been a huge supporter of B4, for which we are very grateful and have historically been a supporter of both Oxford United and Oxford City. Huge congratulations to John for building such a formidable global player but equal praise should be given for ensuring Unipart has never forgotten its roots. The best of luck in retirement on behalf of the B4 community.”