From an early age, I was creative and always interested in design. I also grew up with a family of car enthusiasts, and my father worked for Jaguar. So the combination of cars and design was perfect for me.
I had studied A-Level fine art, and was lucky enough to be offered a technical apprenticeship in the industry. I continued to draw during lunchbreaks, and my manager at the time spotted me sketching one day. He suggested I apply for a position within the design studio.
"I’d never seen anything like it before, I was in awe!"
My interview was the first time I’d been inside a real design studio, and it was amazing. I recall the smell of the clay and the magic markers that the designers used. The modellers were sculpting full-scale clay models. I saw somebody modelling a speaker fret from clay; actually modelling each individual hole in the speaker by hand. Tiny details made it look like the real thing. I’d never seen anything like it before, I was in awe! I knew straight away that was what I wanted to do
I was seconded in the design studio for three months. I think they wanted to see how I would integrate in what was then a largely male dominated team. I must have made a good impression, as was asked if I would like to pursue a career within design as part of the clay sculpting team.
"My team are the most amazingly creative people"
During the three months, I’d had more time to experience the other design disciplines, and I asked if I could spend some time in colour and materials team. I’ve been with Jaguar for almost 18 years and now I lead the team that create colour and materials for the interior and exterior for all Jaguar’s range of vehicles. My team are the most amazingly creative people - so vibrant and inspirational to work with.
We are in the business to delight our customers, and their expectations are rising continually, but such a challenge makes the job exciting and rewarding.
Being part of the team that delivered the I-PACE was incredible. It’s such a game-changer for the brand and for the business. I feel immensely proud to have been part of that particular milestone in Jaguar’s story.
“Go for it! There are wonderful opportunities for women in this business."
If I were to give advice to my younger self, it would be “Go for it!” There are wonderful opportunities for women in this business. Think of every day as an opportunity to learn something new or to meet someone new.
My job has given me many opportunities. I have been fortunate to experience working in Europe and the USA. These opportunities wouldn’t have happened if I hadn’t said yes to new challenges.