JLR appoints Ralf Speth as new CEO

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) today said it has appointed Ralf Speth as chief executive officer (CEO) with an overall responsibility for the firm's operations, continuing with the Tata Group's move to be a truly global company.

The appointment of Speth follows the recruitment of former General Motors European head, Carl-Peter Forster as Tata Motors' Group CEO, who will take care of the overall responsibility of the company globally, including JLR.

Last month, David Smith stepped down as CEO of JLR after a breakdown in negotiations on workers' pay and conditions.

Speth will report to Forster, the recently appointed Group CEO of Tata Motors, the company said in a statement.

"The introduction of Ralf Speth into JLR under the guidance of Carl-Peter Forster will considerably strengthen the management of the company and enhance the position and reputation of the two iconic brands in line with the long term strategy of the company," Tata Motors Vice-Chairman Ravi Kant said.

Speth has over 22 years experience in the European auto industry. Prior to this appointment, he was head of global operations of the Linde Group.

He has spent most of his career with BMW where his last appointment was vice-president, Land Rover. He was also director production, quality and product planning at premier automotive group of Ford.