Team Leader – Vehicle Dynamics
Location: Banbury, UK
Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Salary: Up to £90k (Experience Based)
Start Date: ASAP / Negotiable
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Head of Vehicle Performance Modelling & Simulation to lead a highly technical team in developing and applying advanced simulation tools to improve race car performance. This senior role reports directly to the Head of Performance Systems (or delegate) and collaborates closely with Race Engineering, Vehicle Performance, Mathematical Modelling, Design and Aerodynamics groups across international sites. Key Responsibilities:
1. Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performance technical team, overseeing recruitment, onboarding, employee engagement, and performance reviews.
2. Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement across cross-functional departments.
3. Maintain regular communication with internal groups to understand toolset needs and promote current and evolving capabilities.
Technical Strategy & Delivery
4. Oversee the development and application of in-house simulation and modelling tools to optimise on-track and future vehicle performance.
5. Drive continuous improvement in model correlation and predictive capability using real-world and lab test data.
6. Guide the development of advanced physics-based models, simulations, and optimisation tools to support engineering decisions.
7. Support concept and design development across mechanical and aerodynamic domains, with input into component and system-level analysis.
8. Coordinate with Software Engineers to enhance tools via automation, APIs, and GUIs.
Analysis & Reporting
9. Lead the interpretation of simulation data to generate actionable insights for performance improvements.
10. Coordinate and propose experimental validation activities (trackside, in-house labs, or off-site facilities).
11. Produce clear and concise technical reports and updates to inform engineering leadership.
Qualifications & Experience
Required:
12. Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. A Master’s/PhD is highly desirable.
13. Minimum of 5 years’ experience in motorsport or a vehicle dynamics/performance role in the automotive sector.
14. Proven team leadership and project management experience in a technical environment.
Desirable:
15. Previous Formula One or high-performance motorsport experience.
16. Experience working with design and aero teams across geographically diverse locations.
Technical Skills & Tools
17. Proficiency in object-oriented programming (preferably C# or C++).
18. Expertise in MATLAB scripting.
19. Familiarity with lap simulation, race car setup, and performance analysis tools.
20. Experience with symbolic/acausal modelling languages (e.g., Modelica, SimScape).
21. Understanding of race data analysis tools (e.g., McLaren Electronics toolchain).
22. Strong knowledge of vehicle dynamics, simulation, and physical rig testing processes.
Work Environment & Requirements
23. Role involves occasional domestic and international travel.
24. Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as required.
25. Physically capable of lifting up to 50 pounds, with frequent bending and manual tasks in a workshop or test rig setting.
26. Compliance with all health and safety regulations and standards is mandatory.
How to Apply
Submit your CV detailing your relevant experience and what makes you the ideal candidate for this role.