Andy Cowell, Mercedes Managing Director, is parting ways with the Formula 1 team next month.
He has been serving as Managing Director since 2014 and was currently leading the Formula 1 Engine division for the team. He has been serving the same division, High Performance Power-train (HPP), at Mercedes-AMG for past 16 years.
Mercedes dominated the era of hybrid V6 engines with six consecutive world championship titles, driver and constructor. He played leading role in development of V6 hybrid engines.
On Monday, Mercedes officially announced that Cowell would be parting his way with the company in July. According to official statement, he had informed the company in January regarding his decision.
The team has announced the replacement and changes in the team. Hywel Thomas is replacing Cowell as Managing Director and will be managing the engine division affairs.
Adam Allsopp, Richard Stevens and Ronald Ballhaus will be managing power train, operations and finanace & IT respectively as directors of these business units.
“This new structure will enable the company to deliver three key projects to the highest possible standards in the coming years: the F1 Power Unit, the Formula E powertrain and the powertrain development and production of the Mercedes-AMG One,” the statement says.
Cowell will transition his duties to Thomas and will be onboard for consultation with “Mercedes-Benz AG on a major future project until at least early 2021”.
“Andy’s leadership of the team at HPP has been a key factor in our championship success in recent seasons,” said Toto Wolff.
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“He has made an outstanding contribution to our motorsport legacy. I am sure he will enjoy great success in the next challenge he decides to take on.
“Our philosophy has always been that a winning team is a dynamic organisation, and that change is a natural part of every company’s development.
“I am particularly pleased that we have been able to work together to create a new leadership structure, by building on the strength in depth of the team in Brixworth.
“After 16 enjoyable years working for HPP, I have decided that now is the right time to move on from my role and seek a new engineering business challenge,” Cowell added.
“I have appreciated the opportunity to work with Markus and Toto in defining the future leadership structure of the company.
“I have every confidence in the ability of Hywel and the team to lead the company forward.”
