The Automotive Council has named a new leader to help steer the future growth of the UK’s automotive sector. 

Steve Marsh, executive director of vehicle programmes at JLR, has been appointed as the industry co-chair. 

Marsh will work alongside ministerial co-chair Sarah Jones MP, Minister of State at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and the Department for Business and Trade.  

The council emphasised that its role has never been more critical, highlighting the technological transformation currently reshaping the automotive industry.  

As vehicles become more connected, automated, and electric, and as global trade dynamics continue to evolve, the collaboration between industry and government is essential, it added.  

The newly appointed chairs will collaborate with other senior leaders on the council, working to strengthen the UK automotive sector’s global competitiveness and enhance its ability to attract fresh investment, particularly in developing and securing its supply chain.  

Marsh joined JLR in 2022 and became executive director of vehicle programmes in 2024.  

With over 37 years of experience in the international automotive sector, he has held positions such as director of manufacturing operations and vice president in the US at Nissan.  

Marsh began his career as an apprentice and advocates for bridging skill gaps through professional development. 

Jones, elected as MP for Croydon West in 2017, was appointed Minister of State at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and the Department for Business and Trade in 2024.  

Her responsibilities include green jobs, energy sector supply chains, and advanced manufacturing. 

Marsh said: “I am honoured to take on the role of Industry co-Chair of the Automotive Council UK as our sector navigates an evolving global trade environment and the transformative shift towards connected, automated, and electrified vehicles.  

“I am passionate about advancing the automotive industry and look forward to working alongside Sarah Jones MP and the Council to help support the UK automotive industry to compete on the global stage, attract investment and foster the skills needed for our industry’s success.” 

Jones added: “With over 37 years of experience in the automotive sector, Steve’s leadership as the new Industry Co-Chair of the Automotive Council will be instrumental in driving forward the work of the Council and ensuring the UK remains at the forefront of automotive innovation.  

“Thanks to Adrian Hallmark for his work as Industry co-chair and to Arun Srinivasan for his stewardship of the Auto Council while the process for appointing a new industry co-chair was underway.” 

The Automotive Council, established in 2009, aims to enhance dialogue and cooperation between the UK government and the automotive sector.  

Its activities focus on skills, competitiveness, digitalisation, supply chain, and the transition to connected, automated, and zero-emission transport.