Life at JLR blog
The last ten years have flown by and the family of people I have worked with and are working with has helped me grow
Mohammed talks us through his valued experience of joining employee-led networks and what it means to him being part of the JLR community.
Q: What is your role at JLR and has it changed since you’ve been here?
I have been working for JLR since 2014. I started as a contract IT Business Analyst, then project manager, then permanent Model Years Business Analyst, Product Specialist and now Solihull and Castle Bromwich Information Digital Technology Industrial Operations Portfolio Manager, I have always worked in IT and combining with automotive this is my dream job.
Q: Are you involved in any projects or networks?
I am currently involved with REACH as an ambassador and champion also with the Pride & GEN network as well as working with early careers through the STEM initiative where I have built invaluable experience and networked with so many great people. Through these networks I am able to support and raise awareness of the opportunities within JLR and the great people and products we have.
Q: Tell us about your journey that led you to JLR.
My passion for IT and automotive started from a young age. Growing up in Smethwick during the 90’s (showing my age here), I have been exposed to the automotive scene which fuelled my passion all things automotive. My fondest memory of my childhood is building my first 383 desktop PC and upgrading it as I was hooked in to know how it worked. Merging both of my passions and working in this sector has helped me hugely, as I am able to come to work happy working on things I enjoy. Growing up I never thought I would be able to combine my passion and work for JLR in the IT department.
Q: How has JLR helped you progress in your career?
During my time at here I have made many positive connections with people through working in IT, this has helped shape me into this person I am and given me the skills and confidence to go further and do more. This has had a positive impact on my life as I am a lot more confident and happier doing what I do, as well as having an impact at JLR. I have been extremely lucky with the opportunities given. This includes meeting great people through all the networks, mentoring and my job role. I feel that the last ten years have flown by and the family of people I have worked with and are working with has helped me grow and develop.
Q: How have your colleagues supported you in your career?
My colleagues have been open, transparent and supportive during my time in JLR. I have been given the space to fly and to help others to fly. As a result I believe that the journey that JLR is going through has really helped me go through my own journey as I can see the change from the top down.
Q: What does SAHM mean to you?
Being someone who is born in Pakistan to a Pakistani Mother and an Indian Father, who was raised in Smethwick I am able to celebrate all the things that make me who I am today. I am able to wear a Kurta to work whilst giving a presentation. The month allows me to recognise and celebrate all the things about me which previously I would not have had the courage to do. I feel empowered to embrace being British whilst celebrating my heritage. Growing up I did not have this opportunity to the outside world this month empowers me to remember the sacrifices that many have made for the better.