Polites, who is credited for returning the two marques to profitability, had been battling serious illness for the past two years and died peacefully in his home country of Australia. .

Ford, which up until last month owned the two brands, paid a glowing tribute to its former employee.

“Geoff's untimely passing robs his family and friends of a man who was a real inspiration to us all,” said Alan Mulally, president and chief executive officer, Ford Motor Company.

“His drive and determination, combined with his clear sense of vision for the business, played a huge role in turning round the business at Jaguar Land Rover and returning it to profitability.

Polites held the position of Jaguar and Land Rover chief executive since September 2005 and had previously been appointed to several high-level management positions within Ford.

He also worked as a Ford car dealer and was named Ford Australia's Dealer of the Year on three occasions.

David Smith, Jaguar Land Rover's chief financial officer, will take over as the acting chief executive officer at Jaguar Land Rover until a successor is appointed.