One of the wonderful things about working for a large company is the ability to network and explore different areas
Hassan joined JLR back in 2014. Read more on how he has explored different parts of the business through networking and job roles throughout his time here.
Q: What is your role at JLR and has it changed since you’ve been here?
I started at JLR in June 2014 as a Launch Engineer in New Model Programmes, now Industrial Operations Programme Development. I was part of a Programme Team responsible for taking a vehicle through the pre-production phase and tasked with ensuring our people, our product and our facilities were ready to go into production on time, within budget and to the correct quality standards. It involved dealing with multiple stakeholders and was project management and delivery biased.
Over the last ten years, I’ve been privileged to have key roles on major Jaguar and Land Rover vehicle launches across Solihull, Halewood, Castle Bromwich, and our Pilot Plants and it served as a great learning and networking opportunity. One of the wonderful things about working for a large company is the ability to network and explore different areas. I chose to use this to my benefit when I chose to pivot into my current role, Strategy Lead, Tata Ecosystems in the Strategy & Sustainability Chapter. In this role, I’m involved in enterprise-wide projects and develop strategic synergy opportunities with the Tata Group Companies and a range of JLR stakeholders.
Q: Are you involved in any projects or networks?
I’m privileged to be a member of the Armed Forces Community Network and the REACH network. These employee-led groups allow me to lean into DE&I activities and play my part in supporting others. For example, I’m co-leading a mentor programme with the REACH Chair where Tata Group Company leaders are supporting South Asian aspiring leaders within JLR, developing Cross-cultural Awareness workshops to improve collaboration between teams and I’ve also led Remembrance Services at our Solihull site to bring together colleagues to remember the service and sacrifice of all those that have defended our freedoms and protected our way of life.
Q: Tell us about your journey that led you to JLR.
I joined at a time when JLR was growing and everyone I met was welcoming and full of positive energy about the company and its future. The application process was straightforward, although I was rejected for a few roles before being finally being successful! I remember the job descriptions being full of JLR acronyms and difficult to decipher, something which has improved in recent times.
Q: How has JLR helped you progress in your career?
I’m a firm believer that you learn from those around you. I’m fortunate that I’ve had some great leaders and experienced many positive interactions with all levels at JLR, all of which help me grow and develop my own working and leadership style.
Q: How have your colleagues supported you in your career?
Through Growth planning, regular one to one’s, objective setting, and introductions to colleagues.
Q: What does SAHM mean to you?
For me, employee led events such as SAHM provide a platform to educate, share and celebrate our culture and heritage. This year’s theme, Free to Be Me, aligns with our JLR Creators Code on so many levels regardless of your interpretation of it. 2023 saw SAHM introduced at JLR and a small group of passionate individuals, including myself, came together to educate our colleagues and showcase our culture and heritage. It had a real family feel to it and we kept everything authentic, positive, and fun. This year’s event has grown and I’m proud of being part of the first event that created a movement and paved the way for the future.