Andrew Smith
Oswestry,Shropshire
Summary
Experienced Strategic and Department Leader with an entrepreneurial mindset and a strong academic foundation. Passionate about transforming the automotive industry through challenging legacy processes, pragmatic risk-based validation and driving a culture of constructive challenge and ownership with a proven track record of delivering innovative, customer-focused solutions from concept to production.
Driven to push technological boundaries, I specialise in leading cross-functional teams, developing robust and sustainable engineering release criteria and driving continuous improvement across the product lifecycle.
I thrive in dynamic environments where I can apply and grow my expertise on high-impact, forward-thinking projects.
Now seeking an opportunity at Rivian Volkswagen Technologies, where I can contribute visionary leadership, technical excellence, and strategic insight to shape the future of the automotive sector.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Head of Whole Vehicle Quality & Validation
Bentley Motors
Crewe, Cheshire
06.2025 - 06.2026
- Enhanced departmental performance and capability by fostering bold thinking and challenging legacy approaches
- Directed V&V strategic initiatives to integrate system engineering and define new PMT structures
- Developed release and validation criteria for over 200 vehicle features including new automotive innovations
- Implemented automated AI-based UI / UX feature validation strategy increasing throughput by 250%
- Created automated KPI framework to monitor vehicle feature validation progress utilising PowerBI
- Consolidated R&D resources to improve efficiency and collaboration
Whole Vehicle Functional Manager - V&V
Bentley Motors
Crewe, Cheshire
11.2021 - 06.2025
- Expanded verification and validation team to encompass durability, regional validation, functional testing and V&V Events
- Strengthened technical proficiency within the team to support demand.
- Developed systems engineering V&V strategy incorporating CAE, Rig, and Physical testing.
Whole Vehicle Technical Manager – Durability
Bentley Motors Ltd
Crewe, Cheshire
03.2019 - 11.2021
- Delivered comprehensive whole vehicle test procedures in alignment with project maturity plans.
- Gained diverse understanding of vehicle development techniques, systems, and sign-off criteria.
Whole Vehicle Technical Manager – Acoustics
Bentley Motors Ltd
Crewe, Cheshire
01.2016 - 01.2019
- Led technical and strategic initiatives to achieve Best in Class; Road Noise, Aeroacoustic, and Cabin Acoustics performance.
- Led and developed team of Acoustic Engineers for physical and CEA development.
Whole Vehicle Engineer – Acoustics
Bentley Motors Ltd
Crewe, Cheshire
01.2014 - 01.2016
- Led acoustic attribute development for road noise, stone-chip, water splash, and cabin isolation across SUV and 4-door models.
Whole Vehicle Junior Engineer - Acoustics
Bentley Motors Ltd
Crewe, Cheshire
09.2010 - 01.2014
- Completed multiple placements in manufacturing, sales and marketing, project forum, purchasing, and vehicle durability.
Production Quality Engineer
Jaguar Land Rover
Solihull, Birmingham
03.2009 - 09.2010
- Enhanced production quality through active participation in process improvement initiatives
Education
Master of Science - Acoustics
University of Salford
01-2016
BEng Degree - Mechanical Engineering
Manchester Metropolitan University
01-2012
Foundation Degree - Mechanical Engineering
South Cheshire College
01-2012
BTEC National Diploma - Manufacture Engineering
Grantham College
01-2009
Skills
- Technical leadership
- Data analysis
- Quality assurance methods
- Project management
- Vehicle validation techniques
- Systems Engineering
- Public speaking
- Performance management in fast-growth environments
- Automotive system development
HOBBIES & INTERESTS
- Building & Maintaining Classic Vehicles
- Mountain Biking & Hiking
- Running & Cross-Fit
- Traveling the world with family
Timeline
Head of Whole Vehicle Quality & Validation
Bentley Motors
06.2025 - 06.2026
Whole Vehicle Functional Manager - V&V
Bentley Motors
11.2021 - 06.2025
Whole Vehicle Technical Manager – Durability
Bentley Motors Ltd
03.2019 - 11.2021
Whole Vehicle Technical Manager – Acoustics
Bentley Motors Ltd
01.2016 - 01.2019
Whole Vehicle Engineer – Acoustics
Bentley Motors Ltd
01.2014 - 01.2016
Whole Vehicle Junior Engineer - Acoustics
Bentley Motors Ltd
09.2010 - 01.2014
Production Quality Engineer
Jaguar Land Rover
03.2009 - 09.2010
Master of Science - Acoustics
University of Salford
BEng Degree - Mechanical Engineering
Manchester Metropolitan University
Foundation Degree - Mechanical Engineering
South Cheshire College
BTEC National Diploma - Manufacture Engineering
Grantham College