An analysis of the information services company's National Business Database has revealed that 54 per cent of all directors in the sector are now under the age of 50 compared to 49 per cent last year.

The number of younger directors increased significantly, with the biggest increase coming from those aged up to 29 years old which rose 53 per cent on last year.

Directors aged between 30 and 34 years old saw a 26 per cent increase, while all age groups of 55 years and above saw a drop in numbers. The analysis also revealed the number of female directors in the automotive industry has risen - women now making up 19 per cent of the total number of sector directors. Kirk Fletcher, managing director of Experian's automotive division, said: “The automotive landscape has traditionally been dominated by older men and although the situation is generally still the same, this latest analysis suggests that changes are taking place. “Not only are directors getting younger but more and more female directors are entering the industry.”