JLR hires 50 specialists to enhance electric vehicle supply chain resilience

In a bold move to ensure the longevity and resilience of its electric vehicle supply chains, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has announced the hiring of 50 new specialists dedicated to navigating the complexities of sourcing key materials amid an increasingly uncertain geopolitical landscape.

This strategic investment supports JLR’s ambitious goal of delivering a fully electric model lineup by 2030 across all its renowned brands.

The newly created roles are designed to enhance the visibility of components and materials within JLR’s intricate supply chain. This increased clarity extends to the origins of raw materials, empowering the company to foresee challenges and effectively mitigate any threats to production. At the heart of this initiative is a focus on critical minerals essential for battery production, such as lithium, cobalt, manganese, nickel, and graphite, which not only have a significant global mining footprint but also carry substantial ethical implications.

Addressing the need for robust supply chains has never been more pressing—recent global challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic and geopolitical conflicts have spotlighted vulnerabilities within the automotive sector. Long supply chains spanning multiple borders can result in costly disruptions, making JLR’s proactive approach both timely and necessary.

To complement these specialists, JLR is forging partnerships with organisations that conduct physical audits of critical materials. This collaboration aims to ensure stringent tracking and monitoring, reaching down to mine sites. JLR is also embracing state-of-the-art technology, harnessing AI, machine learning, and real-time analytics to boost supply chain visibility and resilience.

One key player in this transformation is Jaspal Gill, who, after eight years in various Material Planning and Logistics roles, now serves as the Supply Chain Mapping and Transparency Manager. Gill emphasised the importance of identifying the true origins of parts to secure a continual supply while upholding high standards: “In my previous role in JLR’s Industrial Operations, I collaborated with suppliers to support the seamless operation of our production lines. In my new role, I work to identify the true source of our parts so we can secure continual supply and uphold the highest supply chain standards.”

Joining him is Ama Agyewaa Sappor, another influential figure with over 15 years of extensive supply chain expertise. Bringing a deep passion for ethical sourcing and sustainability, Sappor highlighted the collective effort her team represents: “It all starts with visibility, and that’s what my team brings to the table, contributing directly to JLR’s efforts to be a truly global citizen.”

In addition to launching these 50 new roles, JLR has demonstrated its commitment to fostering knowledge by training over 20,000 employees in key areas of supply chain management, addressing vital topics such as modern slavery and export controls. This initiative is part of JLR’s wider investment of £20 million annually to upskill its workforce in anticipation of its next generation of luxury electric vehicles.