JLR strengthens executive leadership team ahead of transformation phase

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is making key executive-level appointments aimed at driving the next phase of its Reimagine transformation strategy.

Effective 21 October, Steve Marsh (pictured) will step into the role of executive director, vehicle programmes, reporting directly to JLR CEO Adrian Mardell.

Marsh, a seasoned automotive leader with 36 years of experience, previously served as the director of global manufacturing operations at JLR and held senior positions at Nissan as SVP, manufacturing and supply chain.

Since joining JLR in 2022, he has led significant transformations across the company’s global manufacturing operations, preparing the company for a shift toward electric vehicle production.

“The transformation of JLR to a global modern luxury automotive manufacturer is well underway. Delivering our next generation vehicles to the highest standard across all touchpoints is critical to our ongoing success,” said Marsh.

Swarna Ramanathan has been appointed as chief strategy officer, also reporting to CEO Adrian Mardell, effective 4 November.

Ramanathan will lead teams focused on strategy creation, innovation, strategic foresights, alliances and collaborations, and product and customer experience strategy.

With an MBA and a background in mechanical engineering, she brings 20 years of experience in growth strategy development across the automotive, consumer, and energy sectors, having previously worked at McKinsey & Company.

“I am thrilled to be appointed chief strategy officer at such an important moment in JLR’s transformation,” said Ramanathan. “I look forward to playing a leading role in the evolution of the business’s Reimagine strategy for continued success.”

John Beswick has been named chief transformation and performance officer, also effective 4 November.

He joins JLR from Great Ormond Street Hospital, where he served as CFO, and brings two decades of experience in transformational change and finance leadership from his tenure at BT Group. In his new role, Beswick will focus on implementing JLR’s strategic objectives across the organisation.

Beswick said: “My priority will be to lead the implementation of JLR’s strategy throughout the organisation, ensuring seamless team alignment and collaboration.”

Andrea Debbane, who joined JLR’s executive leadership team in August, will remain in her role as chief sustainability officer, having relinquished her interim responsibilities for strategy.

CEO Adrian Mardell said: “Ensuring we have the right leaders with the qualities and experience to deliver our modern luxury vision will ensure JLR’s future health and prosperity.”