Jaguar reportedly removes design chief Gerry McGovern amid rebrand and concept backlash
Jaguar Land Rover’s design head Gerry McGovern has reportedly been dismissed from his role, following growing criticism surrounding Jaguar’s recent brand direction and the debut of the Type 00 concept. Multiple reports from the UK and India suggest McGovern was asked to leave the company earlier this week, though JLR has not issued any official confirmation.
The development comes shortly after the retirement of former JLR CEO Adrian Mardell. His successor, PB Balaji – previously the CFO of Tata Motors and a long-time executive within the Tata Group – is now overseeing the brand during a period of transition. Reports indicate that Balaji may be initiating organisational changes as he takes charge.
Jaguar’s rebrand, unveiled earlier this year, sparked significant backlash from enthusiasts and industry observers. Its marketing campaign and the styling direction previewed by the Type 00 concept drew widespread criticism, with many questioning the brand’s identity shift. McGovern, who led the design team behind the concept, is believed to have faced heightened scrutiny as a result.
McGovern’s departure, if confirmed, marks the end of more than two decades with Jaguar Land Rover. During his tenure, he played a central role in shaping modern Land Rover and Range Rover design, contributing to models such as the Evoque, Velar, Defender and the latest Range Rover generations. His earlier career included work at the Austin Rover Group, where he was involved in concept and production models like the MG EX-E and MG F, as well as a stint at Ford working on the Lincoln and Mercury brands.
While JLR has declined to comment, the move suggests the company may be preparing for a broader design and brand strategy reset as it navigates its transition toward electrification and a new brand identity.
