Kevin Stride’s career journey at Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is a testament to the company’s commitment to fostering talent from within. Starting as an apprentice, Kevin has worked his way up to a director’s level.
Kevin attributes his success to the exceptional culture at JLR, which acknowledges the significance of every individual’s skills and contributions. The company’s supportive and collaborative environment empowers its employees to cultivate their talents, take risks and foster innovation. This culture of inclusivity and excellence has been instrumental in propelling JLR to the forefront of the automotive industry.
As we sat down with Kevin, We delved into the intricacies of the Quality department at Jaguar Land Rover. With his extensive experience, Kevin was able to provide valuable insights into what makes working at JLR so special. From his perspective, he revealed the key elements of the company’s unique culture and work environment that make it an exceptional place to work. In addition, Kevin offered expert advice and tips for individuals aspiring to join the Quality department at JLR, shedding light on the skills and qualities that are essential for success in this field.
Q: What position did you start in and what is your position now? Please describe your current responsibilities.
I started as an undergraduate apprentice in Engineering, following a career path that ultimately led to full vehicle and architecture project leadership at Executive level, delivering more than 20 car projects, two full architectures with 2 World Car of the Year recipients. My latest assignment is Director of Forward Model Quality, providing a partnership role with the future product programmes, to ensure that the content maximises Customer Satisfaction and builds in Quality in every part of the Design, Engineering and Manufacturing process.
Q: Are you involved in any other projects / networks? If so, please describe what they are and what your contributions are.
I am a recently appointed Trustee Director of Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust, providing my knowledge and network gained over many years in Jaguar Land Rover, to assist the goals of the Trust.
Q: What do you like about working here?
Whilst there is an obvious draw from the exceptional products we create and enjoy, the skills and culture of the people across the whole of JLR is very special for me, which continues to grow in very positive steps. The diversity of talent we have is world class and critical as we move through a rapidly changing external environment. On a practical level, significant investment has gone into the working environment, which is inspiring and reflective of how important people are valued in JLR.
Q: Describe your team / department, and what makes it stand out from our competition?
The Forward Model Quality Team consists of an incredibly diverse set of highly motivated people, representing a vast range of experience from within and outside the Auto industry. Expertise exists from the more traditional Vehicle Engineering and Manufacture, through Electrified Propulsion, to deep knowledge of Digital Products and Services. The experiences and collaborative leadership styles at all levels in our team, have gained inclusion and respect from the whole Enterprise, representing a first class Quality capability as a Business Partner.
Q: Tell us 3 interesting facts about yourself.
- I’m an avid Mountain Biker and have raced the Megavalanche event in the Alps
- One of my dogs is half wolf
- My first car (and introduction to welding!) was a Triumph Vitesse Mk2 Convertible, that by chance, was built on the day I was born.
Q: What hints and tips can you share with the potential candidates who are going through the application / interview process?
A demonstrated ability to create positive relationships across an Enterprise, to influence a complex set of stakeholders is a critical part of contributing to the success of our team’s purpose.
A real passion and skill for developing people and capability is part of our Team Brand.
