Architecture Manager, Exteriors

What to Expect

To lead the development and integration of exterior vehicle architecture systems, ensuring alignment with overall vehicle targets including performance, quality, cost, and timing. The role acts as a key interface between design, engineering, manufacturing, and suppliers to deliver innovative and feasible exterior solutions that meet customer expectations and regulatory requirements.

What You'll Do

HRR-ADV-01

• 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.
  
  

What You'll Bring

• Business Knowledge:
• 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.
  
  

Essential Functional / Technical Skills:

• Proficient in CAD tools (e.g., CATIA, NX) and PLM systems.
• Deep knowledge of exterior systems design, materials, and integration.

Understanding of CAE tools and physical validation methods.

Ability to interpret and apply engineering standards and specifications.

Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis skills.

Personal Attributes / Competencies:

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong leadership and team collaboration abilities.
• Detail-oriented with a strategic mindset.
• Resilient and adaptable in a fast-paced environment.
• Passionate about automotive innovation and customer experience.
  
  

What We'll Do for You

We offer a wide – ranging benefits package, which includes:

• Structured career development framework
• 25 days’ holiday, plus bank holiday. Annual buy & sell up to five days
• Enhanced company pension scheme
• Discretionary annual bonus award
• Private medical insurance and health cash plan
• Life assurance benefit
• Ability to apply for a sabbatical of up to one year after only two years’ service
• Benefits you can adapt to your lifestyle, such as discounted shopping
• Generous parental leave policies
• A range of wellbeing initiatives, such as employee assistance programme and free financial & mortgage advice
  
  

Who Are We?

No restraints. No limitations. We don’t simply push boundaries. We completely rethink them. McLaren Automotive exists to create breath-taking performance road cars.

It takes a community to do what we do. A diverse group of people with many areas of expertise, united by their passion to deliver visionary products and set new benchmarks.

McLaren Automotive commits to equal opportunity for all. Diversity, Equality and Inclusion is at the heart of our impact, it drives our innovation and enables us to truly create something special. Join us on our journey.