Exterior Systems Architecture Lead

McLaren; United Kingdom; Remote; GBP 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Enhanced pension scheme

Discretionary annual bonus

Private medical insurance

Life assurance

Sabbatical opportunity

Wellbeing initiatives

Parental leave policies

Employee assistance programme

Discounted shopping

Job summary

McLaren Automotive seeks a senior leader to drive the development and integration of exterior vehicle architecture across programs. You will align performance, quality, cost, and timing while coordinating design, engineering, manufacturing and supplier activities.

The role requires deep knowledge of exterior systems, CAD/CAE tools, and cross-functional leadership to deliver innovative, compliant exterior solutions that meet customer expectations.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of automotive product development lifecycle.
• Familiarity with global regulatory requirements affecting exterior systems.
• Knowledge of cost drivers and manufacturing processes for exterior components.
• Experience working with cross-functional teams including design, purchasing, and manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Define and manage the exterior architecture strategy across vehicle programs.
• Define and manage the exterior architecture strategy across vehicle programs.
• Lead cross-functional teams to deliver exterior systems including body panels, closures, glazing, sealing, and exterior trim.
• Ensure robust integration of exterior components with adjacent systems (e.g., lighting, aerodynamics, crash structures).
• Ensure the underbody is also integrated (eg, engine, EDU’s, exhaust, battery, chassis systems)
• Drive resolution of technical issues and ensure compliance with safety, legal, and environmental standards.
• Manage supplier engagement and support sourcing decisions for exterior components.
• Support virtual and physical validation activities including CAD reviews, simulations, and prototype builds.
• Monitor and report program status, risks, and mitigation plans to stakeholders.
• Champion innovation and continuous improvement in exterior architecture design and processes.

Skills

Exterior design

Cross-functional leadership

CAD tools

PLM systems

CAE tools

Engineering standards

Root cause analysis

Communication skills

Stakeholder management

Team collaboration

Strategic mindset

Tools

CATIA

NX

PLM systems

Job description

McLaren Automotive seeks a senior leader to drive the development and integration of exterior vehicle architecture across programs. You will align performance, quality, cost, and timing while coordinating design, engineering, manufacturing and supplier activities.

The role requires deep knowledge of exterior systems, CAD/CAE tools, and cross-functional leadership to deliver innovative, compliant exterior solutions that meet customer expectations.