Volunteer Spotlight: Derek Cox - Supporting Sussex

Although I am now retired, I enjoyed an incredibly rewarding and varied career spanning 40 years with the Engineering Services Division at East Sussex County Council (ESCC).

Career History

My journey began in 1968, when I started as an apprentice Auto Electrician at the age of 15. At the time, most county services were delivered in-house, which gave me the opportunity to work on an exceptionally diverse range of vehicles and equipment, from passenger vehicles to heavy and light plant machinery. It was an ideal environment to learn the trade and build a broad technical foundation.

I completed my apprenticeship in 1972, gaining City & Guilds qualifications as both a Vehicle Auto Electrician and Mechanic. However, one thing I quickly learned is that in this industry, learning never stops. Throughout my career, I continued to expand my knowledge and develop new skills, remaining in the profession until my early retirement in 2008.

During my time with ESCC, our Engineering Services team also took responsibility for the electrical and mechanical maintenance of two of the county's most important structures: Newhaven Swing Bridge and Cuilfail Tunnel. This exposure allowed me to broaden my expertise beyond automotive engineering into wider electrical and mechanical engineering disciplines. 

One of the aspects I enjoyed most was helping to train and mentor new engineers joining our maintenance and emergency response teams.

My career progression provided a number of memorable milestones. In 1988, I was promoted to Service Supervisor before moving into the role of Technical Services Manager between 1992 and 1995, overseeing the operation of the East Sussex Fire Brigade's mobile and static workshops. In 1995, I relocated to the council's head office, where I retained responsibility for the county's special structures while also serving as Tunnel Manager for the newly opened Southwick Hill Tunnels on the A27.

Following their transfer into the new Highways England management structure in 1997, I returned to the Engineering Division in 1999 as Assistant County Transport Manager, becoming County Transport Manager the following year. In 2005, I took on my final role as Group Manager, overseeing vehicle maintenance, street lighting and traffic signal contracts until my retirement in 2008.

After moving into a management position in 1988, my manager introduced me to both the IMI and the Institute of Road Transport Engineers (IRTE). I initially joined as an Associate before progressing to full membership of both professional bodies.

Discovering the IMI Member Network

I began attending IMI and IRTE lectures in the early 1990s and quickly found value in the networking opportunities they provided. Building relationships with like-minded professionals and sharing knowledge became an important part of my professional development.

In the late 1990s, I joined the committees of both institutes and went on to serve as Secretary of the IMI Sussex Centre for more than two decades, continuing in the role until the restructuring of the local member associations in 2025.

"My motivation for volunteering has always been simple: a genuine passion for the industry. I have always enjoyed bringing people together, facilitating networking opportunities and seeing the positive feedback that follows successful events."

Derek Cox, MIMI

Volunteering in Sussex

Although public speaking has never been my strongest skill, I firmly believe that volunteers who organise and support industry events play a vital role. Throughout my career, I have seen first-hand the value that live events bring to both members and guests, providing opportunities to learn, connect and exchange ideas.

As our industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace, I believe it is equally important for manufacturers and specialist organisations to support professional development by sharing their expertise. Whether through webinars or, ideally, face-to-face presentations, these opportunities help keep professionals informed about the latest technologies, innovations and best practices.

For me, the rewards of volunteering have always been intrinsic. 

Sussex is currently celebrating its centenary year, and throughout my involvement we have worked hard to offer a wide variety of engaging events. Looking back, I can honestly say that I have learned something from almost every lecture I have attended, which is perhaps the greatest reward of all.

Could you support your local automotive community? We'd love to hear from you. Contact Zoe Sykes, Member Network and Volunteer Manager, to find out more about volunteer opportunities.

The next event hosted by Derek is ADAS Controls & Calibration, why not come along on the 15th September at Northbrook College.