Jaguar Land Rover chief steps down

Jaguar Land Rover chief executive David Smith is to stand down  a week after crucial talks with unions broke down.

Smith, chief executive since 2008, will hand over to Ravi Kant, until recently head of JLR owners Tata Motors.

In an email to staff, the company said “Jaguar Land Rover is today announcing the departure of David Smith as chief executive officer. The company would like to thank David for his efforts in the role and for his service to Jaguar and Land Rover over many years.”

The firm said his departure was not linked to the recent breakdown of talks with unions over pay and pensions.

Smith led a high-profile fight to persuade the government to support it through the recession, but the company finally accessed the funds it needed on the open market after a year of delays. Sources close to Tata said the Indian owner was frustrated by Smith’s performance, and his departure was predicted before Christmas.