JLR appoints P B Balaji as CEO to drive EV revolution amid rebrand criticism

Jaguar Land Rover has announced P B Balaji as its new chief executive, with a mandate to accelerate the company's shift to electric vehicles.

Balaji, currently group CFO at JLR parent company Tata Motors, will take over from Adrian Mardell, who is set to retire later this year after a 35-year tenure with the West Midlands-based car maker. Balaji brings more than three decades of experience in automotive and FMCG sectors.

The appointment comes at a significant period of transformation at JLR, including the controversial rebrand that saw the firm drop its traditional Jaguar "leaper" logo and shift focus toward a more distinctive design signature.

The firm’s "Reimagine" strategy, which aims to reposition JLR as a modern luxury EV player however drew criticism.

Tata Motors chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran praised Mardell’s leadership, saying he delivered a significant turnaround and record results, with JLR posting a £2.5 billion pre-tax profit in 2024/25.

Chandrasekaran said Balaji was selected after months of searching for a successor. “He knows the company, understands the strategy, and has been working closely with the leadership team. This move will ensure we continue to accelerate our journey to Reimagine JLR.”

JLR has faced mounting pressure recently, with US auto tariffs forcing a temporary halt to US-bound shipments and the decision to cut up to 500 management across its UK operations.