Former JLR boss to join historic motorcycle firm

Former Jaguar Land Rover boss Ralf Speth is to join historic motorcycle manufacturer, Norton Motorcycle, as chairman in 2023.

Mr Speth (pictured) left his role as chief executive of global car giant Jaguar Land Rover last year, a position he held for 11 years

Prior to his role at Jaguar Land Rover, Mr Speth held senior roles at BMW, Linde and Ford.

He was the recipient of a knighthood from the Queen in 2018 for his contributions to British industry, and also named as a Fellow of the Royal Society in 2020 for his passion for science.

This senior appointment comes just after Norton Motorcycles, which was taken over by TVS Motor Company in 2020, unveiled earlier this year, that it would be opening a new facility in Solihull.

Norton is currently finalising work on construction of the new factory in Solihull, expected to open later this year 2021.

John Russell, interim CEO of Norton Motorcycles, said: “We are truly delighted to welcome Sir Ralf to the TVS Motor Company family. We know that Sir Ralf is a tremendous leader and his accomplishments in the automotive industry speak volumes.

"This excellent appointment comes at a time when the Norton Motorcycles business is on a very positive trajectory but still with much work to do. We will soon be settled in our state-of-the-art new manufacturing base and the guidance of Sir Ralf will be important for us as a growing British business that has a strong legacy. ”

Outgoing chairman, Venu Srinivasan, who will become chairman emeritus of TVS Motor Company from January 2023, said, “It is a momentous occasion for TVS Motor Company to welcome Ralf to its Board.

“His passion for technology, eye for products and commitment to building brands are truly remarkable. His thoughts will add immensely to TVS Motor as the company shapes itself for the future. Ralf 's deep insights and guidance will be invaluable to the management team as TVS Motor Company embraces the future of mobility. ”

Norton 's new factory base will be the central hub for all of the company 's operations, providing a permanent base for all staff. The new headquarters will be home to design, engineering, purchasing, sales, marketing, and support teams as well as the skilled production team that is resuming manufacture of motorcycles.