Job Description

Description

The Vehicle Development Director is accountable for leading the complete development lifecycle of vehicles and advanced engineering projects within Gordon Murray Advanced Engineering (GMAE). This leadership role spans the management of the vehicle development team, the development workshop, and the prototype workshop.

The role ensures that all prototypes and development vehicles are built, tested, and validated to the highest engineering and quality standards, aligned with programme milestones and customer expectations.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & StrategyProvide strategic direction and hands-on leadership to the Vehicle Development, Prototype Build, and Workshop functions. Shape and execute development plans that meet the technical and performance goals of each programme. Ensure cross-functional collaboration with engineering design, programme management, manufacturing engineering, and quality functions.

Development DeliveryOversee the build, instrumentation, testing and refinement of prototypes and development vehicles. Define and implement test and validation plans (physical and virtual) for full vehicle and systems development. Drive efficient usage of the development fleet across testing, durability, emissions, performance, NVH, and regulatory compliance activities.

Workshop & Prototype OperationsLead the planning, resourcing and scheduling of prototype builds to meet programme timelines. Maintain high standards in prototype build quality, workshop organisation, and health & safety. Ensure effective facility and resource management across the development and prototype workshops.

Team LeadershipManage, mentor and develop a multi-disciplinary team of engineers, technicians, and workshop personnel. Foster a high-performance culture focused on continuous improvement, innovation, and problem-solving. Build team capabilities in line with future project needs and emerging technologies.

Governance & ReportingTrack development progress, risks, and issues, reporting to senior management and programme stakeholders. Ensure robust configuration management and documentation of test results, builds and changes. Support customer reviews, design verification and homologation processes as required.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

Proven experience in a senior-level vehicle development leadership role within the automotive or motorsport sector. Strong knowledge of full vehicle development processes including prototype build, vehicle test, validation, and sign-off. Experience managing cross-functional teams and workshop environments. Excellent organisational and project leadership skills. Strong technical foundation in mechanical, systems or vehicle engineering. High attention to detail and a hands-on, pragmatic approach. Experience in low volume, high-performance vehicle development. Familiarity with regulatory testing and certification processes. Degree in Automotive, Mechanical or Systems Engineering (or equivalent experience).

Benefits

As well as the opportunity to work with a fantastic team, the position comes with:Competitive Base Salary Private Medical Scheme Life Assurance Holiday Loyalty Bonus Scheme Enhanced Personal Pension Plan Enhanced Maternity & Paternity Pay Cycle to Work Scheme Salary Sacrifice Car Lease Scheme Parking Onsite



Gordon Murray Group is committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of age, sexual orientation, gender, pregnancy, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, disability, medical history, race, marital status, genetic information or parental status. We strive to promote a workplace that celebrates diversity and encourages individuals to express their opinions and beliefs.

Please do not hesitate to get in touch should you require any reasonable adjustments to assist with your application.

All applicants must have the Right to Work in the UK.

About Gordon Murray Group

Gordon Murray Group is a UK-based global luxury brand dedicated to creating and manufacturing the world's greatest driving cars. These ultra-exclusive cars are engineered and designed without compromise to provide unrivalled driving experiences and driver-centric connection.