Van factory boss to retire after 36-year career

Mark Noble has worked at almost every level of vehicle manufacturing

The boss of a van factory has announced he is stepping down after a career spanning four decades.

Mark Noble first joined Vauxhall in 1988 and has been the Luton plant director since 2022.

Vauxhall owner Stellantis has plans to make electric vehicles at the plant from next year.

Mr Noble said: "I am proud of the work I've been able to do here, and to have had a front-row seat to watch the company progress to a new stage of vehicle production."

Mr Noble, who is also the UK Manufacturing Lead for Stellantis, described the industry as the "most exciting in the world".

He said he had worked at "almost every level" of vehicle manufacturing.

In 2018, he became director of the Ellesmere Port car factory, in Cheshire, before taking up the same position in Luton.

Mr Noble oversaw the electrification of both plants.

The group managing director of Stellantis UK commended Mr Noble's "exemplary service".

Maria Grazia Davino said: "Mark has been instrumental in so many important moments for this company."

The Luton factory, which first opened in 1905, made its first van in 1932. It now has about 1,500 employees.