REQ ID: 131388
JOB TITLE: Senior Launch Leader
SALARY: £47,200 - £57,000
POSTING START DATE: 15/04/2026
POSTING END DATE: 29/04/2026 
LOCATION: West Midlands (Castle Bromwich & Solihull) 

Working in Manufacturing at JLR, you'll be the hands-on expert who brings innovation to life. You'll collaborate with a team of expert technicians and problem-solvers and use cutting-edge tools, facilities, and processes engineered together to build era-defining vehicles that people across the world know and love. Your expertise will directly impact the shaping of modern luxury. Together, let’s create the exceptional. 

This role will lead a dedicated, cross functional launch team including Die Engineers, a Quality Engineer, a Production Leader and Production Associates focused on delivering flawless introduction of new stamping processes into the Castle Bromwich and Solihull Press Shops.  Beyond managing the technical elements of die launch, you will oversee all operational aspects of readiness, working closely with Body Shop teams to understand quality feedback, work with Global Manufacturing Engineering team to support issue resolution, and ensure new panels meet both operational & programme expectations.

You will represent the Press Shop in programme reviews, including executive level reviews, providing clear updates on launch status, risks, and work with GME on recovery actions. This position offers significant visibility across the organisation and is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to accelerate their career, build a strong cross functional network, and gain exposure to senior leaders while shaping the success of major vehicle programmes.

WHAT TO EXPECT 

A results‑driven launch leader responsible for delivering flawless new model introductions through cross‑functional coordination, robust quality governance, and proactive issue resolution.

• Ensure full compliance with Health & Safety procedures by identifying hazards, driving corrective actions, and maintaining all required safety metrics and training standards.
• Develop and mentor team members, building capability within the launch organisation and fostering a culture of proactive problem‑solving and continuous improvement.
• Lead a dedicated cross‑functional launch team—including Die Engineers, Quality, Production Leadership, and Associates—to deliver high‑quality new model introductions.
• Oversee end‑to‑end launch readiness across materials, tooling, pallets, people, project planning, and quality to meet all programme milestones.
• Act as the primary interface with Body Shop, gathering quality feedback, supporting root‑cause analysis, and ensuring rapid and effective corrective actions.
• Represent the Press Shop in programme reviews, including executive‑level forums, providing clear updates on launch status, risks, and recovery plans.
• Drive cross‑functional issue resolution, ensuring containment, permanent corrective actions, and timely closure of all launch‑related concerns.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED 

You'll be a resilient and modern leader with deep technical expertise in press tooling, strong business acumen, and a proven ability to deliver results in fast‑paced, high‑pressure manufacturing environments as well as this you'll:

• Demonstrated capability in modern leadership, fostering high‑performing teams and driving a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
• Proven resilience and effectiveness in fast‑paced, high‑pressure environments, consistently maintaining performance and decision‑making clarity.
• Strong technical understanding of press tool design, associated methods, and emerging technologies within the pressed parts domain.
• Broad knowledge of key processes, facilities, and technologies across the full pressed parts process chain.
• Solid business acumen, enabling balanced decision‑making that aligns operational performance with wider organisational objectives.
• Skilled in practical problem‑solving, applying structured methodologies to identify root causes and implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Experienced in working collaboratively with trade unions, maintaining constructive relationships and supporting positive industrial relations.

There will be a need to travel between sites as required, with Castle Bromwich as the primary location and regular travel to Solihull. 

BENEFITS

This role is rewarding in more ways than one. On top of our core offering, you’ll do extraordinary work with amazing people. In addition, you can expect a wide range of benefits:

• Discounted car purchase (open to family members, too)
• A 52 week maternity leave policy and a 4 week paternity leave policy. Other parental leave policies are available
• A competitive pension
• A JLR company performance-related bonus
• An employee learning scheme providing funding for; education, training and other activities which support the development of personal skills and promote lifelong learning
• Access to open, employee-led support and social networks
• Comprehensive Life Assurance and Income Protection policies

We work hard to nurture a culture that is inclusive and welcoming to all. We understand candidates may require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process. Please discuss these with your recruiter so we can accommodate your needs. 

Applicants from all backgrounds are welcome. If you’re unsure that you meet the full criteria of a role – but you're interested in where it could take you – we still encourage you to apply. We believe in people's ability to grow and develop within their role – it’s what makes living the exceptional with soul possible.

JLR is committed to equal opportunity for all.