Bestselling author and broadcaster brings expertise in mindset, high performance and cultural change to December event

The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) is delighted to announce Matthew Syed as a keynote speaker at its 2026 Annual Conference, “Rebel Aftermarket: The Right to Repair Challenge”, which takes place on Thursday 3 December 2026 at The Vox, Resorts World, Birmingham.

This year’s event will feature a conference programme that brings leading voices from across the automotive aftermarket together to discuss the issues, opportunities and developments shaping the sector.

The popular IAAF Garage Den will also return, bringing garages and suppliers together to develop a new product or service that benefits the sector.

Matthew Syed is a bestselling author and broadcaster whose work focuses on mindset, high performance and cultural change. His books include Bounce, Black Box Thinking, Rebel Ideas and The Greatest, and he has worked with leading organisations to build a mindset of continuous improvement.

In Black Box Thinking, Syed explores how learning from mistakes can drive innovation and improvement, while Rebel Ideas examines how different perspectives help teams solve complex problems. These themes have particular relevance to aftermarket businesses navigating technological change and developing the skills needed for the future.

Syed’s session will equip attendees with practical tools to manage stress, maintain energy and focus, and approach challenges as opportunities.

Mark Field, IAAF Chief Executive, said: “Matthew’s work on continuous improvement and high performance has much to offer the automotive aftermarket, where businesses are responding to changing technology, customer expectations and skills requirements.

“We want this year’s conference to give members fresh perspectives they can take back to their own businesses. Matthew’s insight into how individuals and teams learn and adapt will make a valuable contribution to that discussion.”

To book your place at the IAAF Conference, please contact Angela Neale at angela@iaaf.co.uk.

For more information about the IAAF, visit www.iaaf.co.uk