James Vowles, New Williams Formula 1 team principal, insists on placing a new technical structure at the Grove outfit.
Williams has seen an over-all overhaul for its F1 team. Three key positions at the team were available because its technical director, head of aerodynamics and team principal left the team. Francois-Xavier Demaison, Dave Wheater and Jost Capito headed these positions at Williams, respectively.
The top two technical positions are still unfilled. However, the team on boarded Vowles from Mercedes as its new team boss.
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It could take months before the positions are filled. It could take a while before the individuals start working at their new roles.
“I think the primary thing is we don’t have the structure in place technically. Obviously, as a result of the changes that were made,” said Vowles.
“And number one is let’s put in place a proper set of structures, in terms of technical director, head of aero. That’s number one, because clearly an organisation needs those to move forward.”
Vowles wants the right person
Vowles is clear about his priorities and is in no hurry to fill the available positions. He insists to find the right person for the team.
“So there’s a strong organisation in place, and it’s acting without a TD,” he said. “As we speak today, there’s a car on track, it’s built. They did an incredible job over the winter to achieve that.
“What’s clear is this is not about short-term putting someone in place. This is about long-term, and making sure we have the right person in place. We’re not going to rush to a decision. The key is making sure we find the person that fits the organisation for the long term.”
Vowles insisted that the team has passionate personnel in the team.
“There’s a number of great people there on site,” he said. “They’ve obviously had a difficult probably last 15 years or so, due to just circumstance, lack of investment and otherwise.
“But you can still tell that there the same level of passion that is shared, irrespective of the grid position you’re in, is there, and available to you. And the work, whatever it takes really to move forward.”
Additionally, Vowles admitted it will take time before he his used to the new environment at the new team.
“It’s just understanding where Williams is. I had the benefit really, of being in an organisation where if you required something, you asked for it, and you’re provided with it. We had everything you could possibly imagine.”
