Meeting the People Who Run the JEC

Meeting the People Who Run the JEC

Tucked away in an unprepossessing modern office on a trading estate on the outskirts of Bristol is the HQ for one of the most popular car clubs in the UK. We were invited to have a look around and chat with the people who coordinate events, newsletters, magazines, membership data, special offers, etc., etc.

The Jaguar Enthusiasts Club was founded in 1984 and now boasts over 15,000 members worldwide. Like all car clubs, there are a few dedicated individuals at the centre who support a network of regional representatives so that enthusiasts can get the most out of their car and the accompanying lifestyle. Anyone who’s bought a classic or specialist car soon discovers that they’ve bought into a way of life. They’ll make new friends and experience things that they could not have imagined when first they realised their dream of owning a Jaguar (or a Daimler or ‘Swallow’ model)!

Andy Webber is responsible for the JEC’s national events and sponsorship. His passion for Jaguars started with his great Uncle’s XJS and just grew from there. He eventually acquired club membership and an XKR in 2011 and he now works there… buying into a lifestyle, indeed!  Andy showed us around and explained how the office manages the demands of a Club that extends to 62 UK and 23 International regions. “It’s a busy environment with no day the same.  I love the enthusiasm that our members have and exploring new avenues to help them”

The Club’s website is also managed in Bristol along with access to spare parts, technical assistance and memorabilia.  Naturally, the walls are festooned with pictures, many of them unique, such as some factory concept drawings. There’s even a watercolour by the legendary Norman Dewis, albeit of a country scene rather than an E-Type speeding towards the Geneva Motor Show in 1961! 

General Manager Graham Searle’s role involves everything from car valuations to organising events for 1,000+ Jaguars. Graham commented, “we get calls and emails on all aspects of Jaguar ownership, it certainly makes the job very interesting talking to so many petrolheads.” Graham is supported by James Blackwell, again a Jaguar enthusiast (primarily the XJ models) who joined in 2011 and provides a multitude of support including technical and anything website-related.

It seems normal when chatting to people in car club HQs that work is also something of a hobby. Philippa Fox is no exception with a petrolhead husband and a son who works on the World Endurance Championship circuit. Philippa works alongside Helen Norris and Tom Coggins supporting the extensive administration of such a large club.

Members are always welcome to pop into the Bristol office, although an appointment is needed. They sometimes host tours there, but as Andy said “we’re a bit short of space for organised tours, which is perhaps a little ironic as part of our role is organising tours!”

If you’re a JEC member and you’re in the area and want look around, give the office a call on 0117 969 8186.

Any enthusiast is welcome to join the JEC, regardless of whether they’re an owner, for an annual fee of only £50.00 (see here). You can be sure that, thanks to the support from the Bristol HQ, there’s something interesting going on somewhere near you and probably some new friends on the horizon.