The FIA has announced two new key appointments in its leadership after a recent spate of exits from the organisation.
The motorsport governing body has recently suffered a loss of a number of key personnel, including Sporting Director Steve Neilsen, Commissioner for Women Deborah Mayer, Technical Director Tim Goss, and its first-ever female CEO Natalie Robyn.
These were followed last week by the departures of Director of Communications Luke Skipper and Secretary General of Mobility Jacob Bangsgaard.
These exits have all come within the space of a year, putting further scrutiny on the leadership of President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who has incited controversy during his tenure, particularly in recent weeks, with the pursuit of swearing by Formula 1 drivers to be virtually outlawed, causing friction with reigning World Champion Max Verstappen.
However, there will be some relief felt at the FIA’s Paris HQ this week with the arrival of Alberto Villarreal, who joins as General Manager, who is followed by Alessandra Malahmé, who has been given the role of Senior HR Manager.
Ben Sulayem ‘delighted’ with new FIA appointments
Villarreal boasts two decades as a senior leader within The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, and said it was “an honour” to join the FIA, adding: “I look forward to working with the Members, the President, the leadership team and all staff to achieve our shared goals of reform and growth.”
Malhamé also has many years experience in her field, working with organisations including Honeywell and Bristol Myers Squibb, and said: “My focus at the FIA will be on fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation, simplifying processes, and empowering employees to achieve our shared goals.”
Ben Sulayem added to those sentiments by saying he was “delighted” to welcome them both, adding: “with Alberto’s vast leadership experience, I am confident he will drive sustainability in our financial performance governance and operations and deliver value for our Members.
“Alexandra brings a wealth of HR expertise to the federation. I am confident she will ensure the development of our most precious commodity – our people.”
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