GCA’s ‘Our Aftermarket’ Series Shines a Light on Resilience and Real Impact with Mike Smallbone

Glen Callum Associates continues its inspiring Our Aftermarket campaign with a moving and deeply authentic episode featuring one of the sector’s most recognisable and respected figures — Mike Smallbone.

In this latest interview, Mike opens up to Glen Shepherd about a 46-year journey in the automotive aftermarket that began with self-doubt, a missed interview, and a second chance that changed everything. The campaign, designed to showcase the rich diversity of career paths in the £21 billion UK aftermarket, brings a very human story to the forefront — one of perseverance, purpose, and the power of people.

“I left school at 15. I didn’t have any qualifications. I wasn’t confident, I had a stammer, and when I went to my first interview — I bottled it. I couldn’t even walk through the door,” Mike recalls. “It was my mum who rang up the manager and asked him to give me another chance. He said yes. That moment changed the course of my life.”

Mike went on to spend four formative years at Halfords before building a successful and varied career across motor factors, distribution, trade associations, and now as the founder of his own consultancy, Aftermarket Business Solutions. His story reflects both the humility and grit that characterise so many in the sector — and highlights just how much is possible when someone is simply given a chance.

“The aftermarket gave me everything — a career, a decent living, amazing people, and lifelong friends. But most importantly, it gave me a chance when I needed one.”

Throughout the episode, Mike champions the need to break outdated assumptions about the industry, especially among young people and career-changers. He speaks with passion about the sector’s diversity — not just in roles, but in people — and how innovation is reshaping the opportunities available.

“We’ve got to stop thinking the aftermarket is just about fixing cars. It’s much more than that. From diagnostics and data to marketing and tech, there’s something here for everyone. And it’s moving fast — this is a future-facing industry.”

Now 62, Mike remains active in the sector through advisory and/or ambassadorial roles with leading brands like VARTA, Mahle, and Osram. He also gives back by working with colleges, encouraging learners to explore roles beyond the workshop — whether that’s in sales, logistics, digital, or parts.

“I met a young lad recently who didn’t want to be a technician — he wanted to work in parts. And that’s brilliant. We need to help people understand there are so many paths in this industry.”

Glen Shepherd, Director at Glen Callum Associates and host of the series, shared his admiration:

“Mike’s journey is everything this campaign is about — real stories, real people, and the opportunities that exist when someone believes in you. His message is clear: success in the aftermarket isn’t just about what you know. It’s about your attitude, your willingness to grow, and how you treat others.”

As Our Aftermarket continues to spotlight the stories that shape this vital industry, the message remains clear: this is a sector powered by people — and those people come from all walks of life.

📺 Watch the full episode featuring Mike Smallbone here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gSl0Tu6be0

Interested in starting or growing a career in the automotive aftermarket?
To find out more or to get involved in the Our Aftermarket campaign, contact the Glen Callum Associates team:
📧 jobs@glencallum.co.uk
🌐 www.glencallum.co.uk