Neil Marsons: Meet Jaguar Land Rover’s purchasing rising star

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Neil Marsons has just returned from Sweden with his newly acquired Rising Star award packed in his hand luggage.

Jaguar Land Rover’s Global Purchasing Director for Chassis and Supply Chain Design was recognised as one of the European automotive industry’s shining lights by business publication Automotive News Europe.

Neil collected his award alongside friend and colleague, Land Rover Chief Designer Amy Frascella, as they joined an elite group of winners who the judges believe are set to be the leaders and innovators of the future.

Based at Gaydon, and leading an 80-strong team of purchasing professionals, the 38 year-old was delighted to have been honoured, but is adamant that the story is not just about his success.

“The award is a major thumbs-up for Jaguar Land Rover’s purchasing team,” he says. “It is a big endorsement from the wider industry that we’re successful and innovative.”

Neil was the only 2019 Rising Star to work within purchasing and believes Jaguar Land Rover has a unique position within the industry, by advancing the expertise of purchasing professionals for the greater good of the business.

“We spend billions each year when it comes to production materials, and unlike many of our nearest competitors we’re using a far wider range of suppliers to help deliver some very technologically advanced cars,” he adds.

“So as purchasing professionals we need to look beyond just deal-making and pricing-up parts. A crucial part of our work is making sure our suppliers feel part of the brands and forge long-term relationships. This is vital as we seek to lead the way in areas like autonomous vehicles, and get the best companies working with us.”

While Neil is clear his accolade recognises his team’s endeavours, you clearly don’t land this kind of honour without doing a lot of things extremely well. Hard work and a fierce loyalty to Jaguar Land Rover form a big part of Neil’s approach.

“I am what you’d call an early bird. I am often out running at 5:30am every other morning and like to be at my desk by 7:30am. Usually I don’t get home until after 7:30pm in the evening,” he says.

“However, I don’t mind this schedule because my days are fascinating and varied, and I am aware that the team I work with has a big opportunity to move the company on.”

His passion for Jaguar Land Rover is also very evident: “I’ve got 30 plus years before I retire and hopefully they will all be spent here,” he says. “What we’re doing in terms of our products and also the people we have is special and being able to feel a real sense of commitment has paid dividends.

“I am a firm believer in learning from folk regardless of whether the job title is extremely grand or not. There’s some fantastic people around me with heaps of talent and experience, I get all the insights and inspiration I need from walking around my office.”