On the Dash:
- Gerry McGovern, Jaguar’s longtime design chief, has been fired amid criticism of the rebrand and Type 00 concept.
- New CEO PB Balaji is likely using the leadership change to reshape JLR’s brand and design direction.
- McGovern’s 21-year tenure included major contributions to JLR’s most successful models, highlighting the significance of his departure.
Jaguar has reportedly fired long-time design boss Gerry McGovern following intense criticism of the automaker’s rebrand and the Type 00 concept, according to Autocar and Autocar India. McGovern was “escorted out of the office” earlier this week, though the company has declined to comment on the situation.
The decision comes less than a week after the retirement of former Jaguar Land Rover CEO Adrian Mardell. PB Balaji, the new CEO and former finance chief at Tata Motors, took over leadership of the company. Analysts suggest Balaji may be using the leadership shake-up to steer Jaguar’s design and brand direction in response to fan backlash.
McGovern, who spent 21 years at Jaguar Land Rover, was instrumental in designing popular vehicles such as the Range Rover Evoque, Range Rover Velar, Land Rover Defender, and the modern Range Rover lineup. He also led the design team behind the controversial Type 00 concept, which mainly drew negative reactions from enthusiasts.
Beginning his career at Austin Rover Group, McGovern worked on concept cars such as the MG EX-E and on production vehicles such as the MG F and the Land Rover Freelander. He later joined Ford to help revive the Lincoln-Mercury brands before joining Jaguar Land Rover.
Industry observers say McGovern’s departure marks a significant change for Jaguar, whose design language has been heavily shaped by his vision over two decades. While he leaves behind a portfolio of some of the brand’s most acclaimed models, recent controversies appear to have accelerated his exit.
