A Jaguar Land Rover executive has been recognised for his contribution to the automotive industry.

Ian Harnett, director of human resources and global purchasing for the vehicle maker, has been awarded the Institute of Sheet Metal Engineering’s Gold Medal.

He ‘follows in the footsteps’ of some of the automotive industry’s best-known names, including Mini designer Sir Alec Issigonis, who was awarded the Gold Medal in 1982, and Jaguar Cars CEO Sir Nicholas Sheele, who received the honour in 1996.

The Institute said that Mr Harnett had played “an integral part” in the growth of the Jaguar Land Rover group.

Chairman Steve Morley said: “The Gold Medal is presented to influential people within our industry, and I’m delighted to say that we had no hesitation in making Ian the 27th recipient of the award.”

The ISME works to promote the science and working of sheet metal and to encourage closer co-operation between industry, universities and research establishments.