ZF Group has named Jake Morris as site leader for its UK research and development hub in Solihull, where he will oversee strategic and operational management of the purpose-built technical centre.
Morris assumes responsibility for the facility at Blythe Valley Business Park, which relocated to its current premises in 2021 as part of ZF’s broader UK manufacturing and R&D expansion strategy. Morris will guide the site’s contribution to ZF’s global technology development and business growth objectives.
Morris will maintain his involvement in ZF’s steer-by-wire programme whilst managing the Solihull operation, continuing to support worldwide product development, customer relations, and financial performance targets in this emerging technology area.
With more than 25 years at ZF, Jake Morris has accumulated senior-level experience spanning portfolio management, commercial finance, purchasing, and engineering disciplines. His most recent position as portfolio director saw him directing global steering product strategies with particular emphasis on next-generation mobility solutions, including steer-by-wire systems. His background encompasses cross-functional leadership, customer development, profitability oversight, and delivery of complex international programmes.
In his new capacity, Morris will concentrate on operational performance, inter-team collaboration, and strengthening the facility’s role in ZF’s global technology pipeline and customer partnerships.
“The site has a strong legacy within both ZF and the automotive industry, with significant history of automotive technology development and testing,” said Morris. “For instance, technologies including ZF’s autonomous driving and steer-by-wire technologies began life at the site.”
The leadership change follows the retirement of Bal Panaser, who concludes more than 40 years in the automotive sector. Panaser played a significant role in developing ZF’s UK operations during his tenure.
