From Doodles to Defenders: Rebecca’s Creative Impact at JLR

Q: What is your role at JLR and how long have you been here? 

I’m the Operations Lead for the Manchester Office (VCDP) and I’ve been here since September 2024 – so not long at all!  

Q: Tell us about an exciting project that you have worked on. 

I organised a Neurodiversity Panel in the Manchester Office as part of Shine/Neurodiversity matters – I am a Shine Champion and I’m also Neurodivergent. The idea was to hear from our colleagues on their experiences with Neurodiversity and to also raise awareness and educate those who know little on the subject. The event was a great success and has had some very positive feedback and outcomes since.  

Q: Tell us about the PRIDE network here at JLR. 

The PRIDE network was one of the first networks I joined. I have always been a big supporter and ally of the LGBTQ+ community especially since my brother is gay and I have seen the struggles he has had to face and wouldn’t wish them on anyone. I work closely with the Pride Champion in Manchester to organise PRIDE events and support where I can. I always love seeing the different things that are going on in the network and try to get involved as much as I can.  

Q: Tell us about the JLR PRIDE car and your involvement.  

The PRIDE network put out a company-wide competition for people to design this year’s Pride Car. When I first saw the competition I hadn’t long started at JLR and thought it was a really cool thing to do. I love doodling and being creative so it was very much up my street. I sat at my desk one day and starting drawing designs for the cars. I turned to my colleague at one point and said “can you imagine if this wins?!” and we laughed. Little did we know my design would actually be the winner!  
My design was shortlisted along with some other fantastic designs and later voted as the winner by the network so I am very proud of what I achieved.  
The PRIDE team then worked with me to make sure my vision was made into a reality and they even asked me to go down to Gaydon to unveil the Pride Cars (wrapped in my design) on the Thursday before Birmingham Pride. I then had the incredible opportunity to drive the Defender in the Birmingham Pride Parade which was just the most heart-warming and wonderful experience to be a part of.  

Q: What does DEI mean to you? 

I believe everyone should be recognised regardless of race, gender, age, ability, religion, or orientation. We should all feel valued, heard, and respected in our workplace and it’s really important to me to create safe work environments for everyone. We need to actively remove barriers and create opportunities so that everyone has a chance to succeed and be the best they can be. 

Q: Finally, what would you tell people who were considering joining JLR? 

It’s so refreshing to work for a company that allows me to fully be me. I feel like there’s so much more I can do and I’ve only just started! It’s also so nice to see JLR celebrate everyone no matter what.