Frank Williams steps down from the Board of Williams Grand Prix Holdings

The old guard continue to change at Williams GP, first Patrick Head steps down in December and now Frank Williams, who has resigned from the Board at the end of this month.

Frank Williams reaches his 70th birthday in April, and felt it was time to signal the next stage in the gradual but inevitable process of handing over the reins to the next generation.

The first step in that ‘handing over’ is the appointment of Frank’s daughter, Claire Williams, as Director of Marketing and Communications. Claire has worked for Williams for 10 years and is best known to fans as the team’s PR spokesperson and friendly face behind their Twitter social media account.

Claire Williams, daughter of founder Frank Williams and now Director of Marketing and Communications for Williams Grand Prix Holdings.

Claire takes over from Dominic Reilly, who has decided to leave the Company at the end of March. Dominic plans to set up a new venture, and Adam Parr, Williams Chairman has promised his full support.

Frank Williams, Team Principal, said, “It is no secret that Claire is my daughter but I am proud to say that she has fought hard to earn this appointment and of all the battles she has had to fight, the prejudices of her father were not the least challenging. Dominic Reilly has proven a unique talent in the field of sports marketing and filling the gap he leaves was daunting.

“But I have come to the view that Claire, with her profound love and knowledge of the sport and the team, can do so and I am proud and delighted that the Board has given her this opportunity. I am equally delighted that Dominic will remain close to the team with his new venture and that we can thank him for his contribution to Williams by supporting him now.”

But Frank is not leaving the sport and will remain Team Principal, attending Board meetings as an observer. He also remains the majority shareholder of Williams Grand Prix Holdings PLC, so will remain a very strong influence.