Tom French

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Jaguar Land Rover

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

I started by working at BMW Mini for 8 months in Cowley, Oxford. Launching the F56 (New Mini) I was involved with the launch quality of that vehicle. I then spent 6 months travelling China, S/E Asia and the USA before returning to the UK to start the JLR Graduate Scheme.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

My network at JLR and the variety of work. In control of my own workload and priorities – given leadership. Engineering detail with project management scope.

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

Social member of badminton, tennis and squash, as well as power kiting in first year!

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

Group projects working with peers. Highlights included my final year project looking at human impact on built environments.

What did you enjoy most about studying here?

Campus, people, city.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

It was actually my second choice – but it was up there due to its great reputation and friendly campus feel.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

Collaboration Networking Maths and Science.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

Work on that network. Reach out to secure some form of engineering work in your summer breaks. Use the people you know, be it family or friends – experience will get your foot in the door and prove your desire to learn and work.

What are your plans for the future?

I plan to climb the ladder at JLR in the short term. One of my goals is to work abroad, something I’d like to achieve before I hit my 30s.