Q: What position did you start in and what is your position now? Please describe your current responsibilities.
I started 5 months ago as an Industrial Operations undergraduate and remain in that position today.
Q: Are you involved in any other projects / networks? If so, please describe what they are and what your contributions are.
In addition to my day-to-day work I am also working on the Jaguar Electric Architecture (JEA) Programme.
Q: What do you like about working here?
JLR has presented me with many opportunities to learn at a stable pace from highly experienced individuals. As an undergraduate, you can move around the business through shadowing and get good exposure to departments and really get a good understanding of how the business works.
Q: What are your career aspirations? Do you feel that you get the necessary support from your management / department to help achieve your learning & development goal?
I aspire to develop my understanding and acquire knowledge of multiple engineering disciplines and how they deliver innovation. Specific to my department, I have built upon my academic understanding of lean manufacturing and its application at production in Solihull.
Q: Describe your team / department, and what makes it stand out from our competition?
Paint Operations is a very interesting department to work in as you get good exposure to multiple engineering disciplines as you work alongside production, simulation and even chemical engineers. You also pick up a niche understanding of the extensive processes and variables that contribute to getting a vehicle painted/coated and its interaction with other departments like Body in White.
Q: Tell us 3 interesting facts about yourself.
I enjoy learning to cook different dishes from all over the world and trying new cuisines.
One of my hobbies is Art. When I get time I get involved with things like sculpting or painting.
My most recent trip was in Corfu with my university friends. During our trip, we accidently hiked up a cliff in order to get to a beach and it was to late to go down when we realised what we were doing.
Q: What hints and tips can you share with the potential candidates who are going through the application / interview process?
Get your CV in check, personalise it and include things which are relevant to the role. Ensure you practise the psychometric testing stage so you can have a chance to demonstrate what you offer. In the interview, take time to think before answering and make sure you provide concise answers to the questions that best reflect your interests.
Q: What position did you start in and what is your position now? Please describe your current responsibilities.
I am currently on the HR (People Experience) undergraduate programme, working in the Performance and Reward Transformation team. Currently, I am primarily focused on supporting my team as we navigate and implement changes to JLR’s performance and recognition approaches.
Q: Are you involved in any other projects / networks? If so, please describe what they are and what your contributions are.
At JLR I am a part of both the Christian network and GEN (Gender Equality Network). Although JLR is such a big company, these networks really help to create a sense of community and help you meet a variety of people from across the company. Also, networks provide you with the chance to engage with exciting opportunities, for example this week I am attending a GEN conference where Erin Baker will be a guest speaker.
Q: What do you like about working here?
JLR has undoubtedly proven to be a place where I can grow both professionally and personally. My manager actively encourages my team to maintain a healthy work-life balance and there is the flexibility to work from home if needed. Additionally, the nature of my role allows me to collaborate with a diverse range of departments and individuals beyond my immediate team – allowing me to broaden my network within the organisation. Furthermore, I really like that there is a strong early careers community at JLR. With a significant number of early career professionals, they have an influential presence at JLR.
Q: What are your career aspirations? Do you feel that you get the necessary support from your management / department to help achieve your learning & development goal?
At this stage in my career, being an undergraduate and at the very beginning of my professional journey, I am in the fortunate position to be able to explore different career paths. What is great about JLR’s programme is that there is the opportunity to shadow different teams that you are interested in. Therefore, while I am a part of the Performance and Reward Transformation team, I am able to get exposure from many different areas within HR, to explore which department is of greatest interest to myself. My manger and Cohort Lead are incredibly supportive and help to facilitate any interest of mine.
Q: Describe your team / department, and what makes it stand out from our competition?
I am a part of the ‘Performance and Reward Transformation’ team which sits within the ‘My Recognition and Global Mobility’ team. My team is responsible for the change that occurs within the performance, recognition and pay spaces. At JLR HR is divided into numerous specialised departments, each dedicated to specific areas of expertise. This means that I am able to focus on a particular HR aspect that truly interests me and gain a comprehensive understanding of it. Having said this, if I wanted a more general understanding there is the flexibility to support other teams if I wanted to.
Q: Tell us 3 interesting facts about yourself.
– In my free time I like to go to the gym – My very first car was a Toyota Aygo (hopefully my next will be a Range Rover Sport 😊) – I am currently learning French
Q: What hints and tips can you share with the potential candidates who are going through the application / interview process?
During the interview, be yourself and provide honest responses. Authenticity shines through and will leave a positive impression on your interviewers. Highlight your genuine enthusiasm for the role and your true motivations for wanting to work at JLR.
Q: What position did you start in and what is your position now? Please describe your current responsibilities.
I joined the Reimagine Jaguar Undergraduate Placement program. I am in the digital experience team. My current responsibilities involve contributing to innovative projects shaping the digital experience for our clients, collaborating with industry experts, and actively participating in shaping our transformation towards an all-electric luxury brand from 2025. This journey has been an invaluable learning experience.
Q: Are you involved in any other projects / networks? If so, please describe what they are and what your contributions are.
I actively follow the Islamic Society of JLR. However, I am not currently participating in any additional projects. My focus has been dedicated to my role within the digital experience team.
Q: What do you like about working here?
Working here at JLR has been an incredible journey. The opportunity to be a part of such a prominent company is both exciting and fulfilling. Learning from industry experts has enriched my skills immensely. The respectful and supportive atmosphere, along with invaluable mentorship, has made me enjoy each day. Furthermore, the inclusivity, including dedicated prayer spaces, makes me truly feel like a valued member of the team.
Q: What are your career aspirations? Do you feel that you get the necessary support from your management / department to help achieve your learning & development goal?
My career aspirations revolve around becoming a leader in the realm of digital technologies and products. I am fortunate to receive essential support from my management, particularly my line manager. Their guidance and setting of achievable goals for my placement have been instrumental in my skill enhancement. For instance, I will be engaged in observing a multi-week website development agile sprint, a practical exposure that vividly illustrates industry practices. This support propels me toward achieving my learning and development goals.
Q: Describe your team / department, and what makes it stand out from our competition?
Our team at new Jaguar is exceptional and stands out remarkably in the industry. What sets us apart is our commitment to innovation and the pursuit of ground-breaking ideas. The team’s ability to think beyond the conventional is astounding, as we’re conceptualizing ideas that break away from the norm. This approach involves incorporating futuristic technologies and crafting digital experiences that redefine our clients’ interactions with our products.
Q: Tell us 3 interesting facts about yourself.
Certainly! Here are three interesting facts about me:
1. Tech Enthusiast: Ever since I was a child, I’ve been captivated by the world of technology. My passion led me to pursue a degree in Information Technology for Business, and now, I’m fortunate to work in the digital experience team at JLR, where I’m immersed in the latest innovations.
2. Cross-Cultural Journey: Being of South Asia descent but raised in the vibrant multicultural hub of Dubai, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing a blend of cultures and perspectives from a young age. This unique upbringing has helped me acquire a global outlook. Moving to the UK in my teens further enriched my life with diverse experiences, shaping me into someone who values the richness that different cultures bring to the table.
3. Curious Knowledge Seeker: Beyond my tech pursuits, I’m an avid reader with a curiosity for knowledge. Books allow me to explore various subjects and broaden my horizons. But my quest for learning doesn’t stop there. I actively seek insights from podcasts, online courses, and engaging discussions, making sure I gain wisdom from diverse channels and perspectives. This passion for continuous learning fuels my professional and personal growth.
Q: What hints and tips can you share with the potential candidates who are going through the application / interview process?
Here are a few valuable hints and tips I’d like to share with potential candidates navigating the application and interview process:
1. Thorough Research: Take the time to deeply understand the company’s values, mission, and recent achievements.
2. Showcase Your Skills: Be confident in highlighting your unique skills and experiences. Focus on how your abilities align with the company’s needs and how you can contribute to their growth.
3. Practice Confidence: Confidence goes a long way in making a positive impression. Practice your responses to common interview questions and work on projecting a poised and self-assured demeanour.
4. Ask Questions: Come prepared with insightful questions about the company, team dynamics, and role expectations. This showcases your eagerness and proactive approach.
5. Be genuine, well-prepared, and confident, and you’ll increase your chances of making a strong impression.
Q: What position did you start in and what is your position now? Please describe your current responsibilities.
I started as a Product Engineering Software Undergraduate within the Suspension Systems team under the Chassis Engineering Department.
My current responsibilities include; Suspension Controller Integration & Rapid Prototyping, Controller Software builds, Parameter Management, Data Visualisation Layouts, Testing Data Library Management, Test Data Processing & Analysis.
I am also responsible for building vehicle suspension energy consumption models and thermal modelling design and analysis for the Suspension Systems team.
Q: Are you involved in any other projects / networks? If so, please describe what they are and what your contributions are.
I am an Early Careers committee member and the Undergraduate Newsletter lead for the monthly JLR Early Careers Newsletter.
Q: What do you like about working here?
JLR often invests in employee development and offers opportunities for growth and advancement within the company which gives me boundless networking opportunities. I often find myself surrounded by like-minded individuals who are enthusiastic about what they do and are car enthusiasts. Moreover the sense of unity, flexibility of working at my own time and collaboration space provided by JLR is what I really enjoy.
I have been following JLR cars since I was a child and Jaguar and Land Rover are iconic brands with a rich history and a strong global presence. I have always been impressed by the quality of JLR’s vehicles. I love how they are built with performance in mind but also offer luxury features like heated seats and navigation systems. Being part of these brands’ legacy is rewarding.
Q: What are your career aspirations? Do you feel that you get the necessary support from your management / department to help achieve your learning & development goal?
I would like to explore the various facets of the corporate world in my foundation years as a graduate and find my niche. In the next two years during my final year in university. I plan on taking up electives from different verticals of engineering to get a holistic perspective on how things run. I plan on meeting people from diverse backgrounds and varied experience and understand their perspective and eventually find my niche and work on related challenging and advanced projects. My future goal is to rise to an influential position in the organization and impact its growth with my innovative use of technology.
I feel that I receive excellent support from my management and department to help me achieve my learning and development goals. They have provided me with opportunities for training and growth, and I appreciate their commitment to helping me succeed. The best explanation, responses, and opportunities are provided, and I get support when I need it.
Q: Describe your team / department, and what makes it stand out from our competition?
My team has experts in suspension systems who possess in-depth knowledge of the field. This expertise leads to innovative solutions and a deeper understanding of the technology. The ability to develop and implement unique designs, materials, or adaptive systems that enhance vehicle performance and comfort. Not all suspension needs are the same, and a team that can tailor solutions is valuable and gives the company a competitive advantage.
We follow comprehensive testing protocols that helps build trust with customers. My team excels at cross-functional collaboration, maintaining strict quality control processes to ensure consistency and reliability of suspension systems. The team stays up to date with market trends and customer demands allowing the department to proactively address changing needs.
Q: Tell us 3 interesting facts about yourself.
I went on a study year abroad to Singapore last year, just before starting the placement. I travelled across several countries in South East Asia such as Japan, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines. I stayed and travelled with random strangers across the world in the Philippines who I met at party hostels.
I like hiking and trekking. I have completed a 12 day trek in the Himalayas with an Indian Youth trekking organisation.
I have studied and lived in 3 different countries. (India, United Kingdom, Singapore)
Q: What hints and tips can you share with the potential candidates who are going through the application / interview process?
Start by thoroughly researching the company. Understand its history, values, mission, products, recent news, and any specific initiatives or projects they are involved in. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the specific job you’re applying for at JLR. Be sure to showcase how your background can contribute to their goals.
Be prepared to discuss relevant industry trends, technologies, and innovations. Show that you’re adaptable and open to learning and growth, especially if you’re entering a technical role and expect questions about your past experiences and how you’ve handled various situations. Emphasize your ability to work effectively in a team, as collaboration is often vital in large organizations like JLR.
“The Undergraduate Programme allows for the freedom to explore roles within Jaguar Land Rover, from shadowing for just a day to venturing on a placement and delving into a unique project over the course of several months.
This breadth of experience has allowed an unparalleled expansion of my knowledge of the internal workings of Jaguar Land Rover, enabling me to realise and develop my strengths, ultimately finding the best career path for me.”
To find out more about Jaguar Land Rover Undergraduate Placement Programmes for 2023, visit our careers website here.
Q: Which department are you in and what role is it you do?
My current role is in Systems Integration, Technology Development. The Team is responsible for integrating vehicles into a variety of test rigs, particularly in simulating various Vehicle Components and ECUs (Electronic Control Units) to ensure the car responds to mechanical input as expected on test rigs despite having certain components removed or locked for testing.
Q: What projects are you working on?
Our Team has been responsible for designing and delivering aspects of a next generation Battery Test Facility for testing of future Jaguar Land Rover vehicles, one of the first such facilities in the World, where full Battery Pack testing can take place in a controlled environment. I have been tasked with researching existing and future battery thermal management systems on vehicles such that a representative solution can be developed and implemented on new Test Rigs. Separate to this project, I have been working closely with our Simulation Cells Team, focusing on and learning about the control systems and data reporting/database management of our 6DoF (6 Degrees of Freedom) and 4DoF rigs which are used to test the durability of our vehicles, simulating many years of use in a matter of weeks.
Q: What is your journey to get to this point?
Throughout my education and subsequent career, I have been intrigued by solving problems. I have thus taken on many group and individual projects, from designing a Collapsible Canoe-Polo Goal in conjunction with industry, to most recently, a Smart Robotic Gripper with advanced sensing capabilities and object recognition functionality at the University of Nottingham. I have thoroughly enjoyed both the creative aspects and technical challenges involved in these engineering projects as well as experienced across a multitude of courses I have been on, made accessible by the award of an Arkwright Engineering Scholarship. These courses and projects involved managing timescales and team members, designing solutions to technical challenges and iterating on them to resolve flaws, as well as consulting with a number of customers. It is the love of this cyclical yet consistently varied process that drew me towards this career.
Q: What are your learning and development goals?
By the end of this year, I aim to have my EngTech (Engineering Technician, iMechE) qualification, then working towards the CEng (Chartered Engineer, iMechE) over the course of the Graduate Scheme at Jaguar Land Rover. I intend to complete placements in different Teams, fulfilling a variety of roles. For example, in October I am expecting to embark on a placement in ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), acting as a Scrum Product Owner within the AGILE framework, responsible for a project’s outcome and maximising value through managing and optimising tasks to be completed – similar to conventional ‘project management.’ I may also work in the role of a Scrum Master, responsible for maintaining efficient and unblocked workflow across a Team.
Q: What is important to you about your work at Jaguar Land Rover?
I find immense satisfaction in improving workflows and efficiencies across a project, thus contributing to the overall sustainability of Jaguar Land Rover whilst delivering value. At Jaguar Land Rover, we are empowered to push for change and improve processes where opportunities for improvement are realised. This freedom and responsibility to challenge established practices are a key part of my work at Jaguar Land Rover.
Q: What impact has Jaguar Land Roverhad on your career?
The Early Careers schemes at Jaguar Land Rover allows the flexibility to explore different Teams and Sectors within the company, from shadowing for just a day to venturing on a placement and delving into a unique project over the course of months. This breath of experience has allowed for the expansion of my skillset, building of a network and the broadening of knowledge of the internal workings of Jaguar Land Rover, enabling me to realise and develop my strengths, ultimately following the best career path for me.
Q: How is your work having an impact on society/the environment/customer experience/needs of the business?
In addition to my primary role at Jaguar Land Rover, I have also taken on the responsibilities of ‘Early Careers Undergraduate Lead,’ working to organise lectures from industry figures, socials and tours of engineering facilities for Early Careers (EC) members across Jaguar Land Rover enabling the networking and development of Undergraduates, Apprentices and Graduates. I am also working towards improving many of the existing systems in place for EC Members: looking to minimise the disruption involved in re-enrolling and inducting employees re-joining the company after a year in industry or on summer placements, thus saving the company thousands of wasted man-hours; introducing networking opportunities such as ‘Coffee Roulette’ to encourage EC members to build contacts and spark interest in potential placement opportunities; increasing visibility and advertising of useful services offered within Jaguar Land Rover, such as the Professional Development Mentorship Scheme that pairs aspiring engineers with senior mentors to guide them through the process of obtaining certain qualifications and working towards Chartership.
Q: Tell us something interesting about yourself?
I have achieved LAMDA Grade 8 (Gold Medal) awards in Public Speaking, Verse & Prose, and Acting. I have also achieved a DofE Gold Award and a number of water sports qualifications (from Scuba Diving to Kitesurfing). Moving on to planning and leading skills sessions for children aged 11-16, teaching the fundamentals of Kayaking and moving onto more advanced Canoe Polo manoeuvres. I recently also obtained my ‘STA Level 2 Award in Teaching Swimming’, teaching Beginner and Improver classes of both children and adults. This has developed my articulation and teaching skills, being able to adapt and tailor explanations to a wide range of audiences with different knowledge levels and needs.
