Getting to know: Claire Williams OBE
Claire Williams is one of the most important and influential women in Formula One.
A bit of history:
After graduating from Newcastle University in 1999 with a degree in Politics, Claire began her career in the motorsport industry when she joined Silverstone Circuit as a press officer in 2000.
Growing up in the sport, it is perhaps unsurprising that Claire would eventually enter the family business. Working in the Race Office during school holidays, Claire was a regular behind the scenes at Williams from an early age before joining the team full time in 2002 in the role of Communications Officer. She was promoted to the role of Head of Communications in 2010, and was duly responsible for all internal and external communications surrounding Williams Grand Prix Holdings PLC.
After Williams floated on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange in March 2011, Claire took on the position of Head of Investor Relations to supplement her role in the communications team.
On the 1st April 2012 Claire was appointed Director of Marketing and Communications, and took a place on the company board. In this role Claire has taken the lead on partner acquisitions, marketing and communications.
In March 2013, Claire stepped up to the position of Deputy Team Principal for the Williams F1 Team. In this role Claire works alongside Founder and Team Principal Sir Frank Williams to play a pivotal role in the day to day running and long term development of the race team.
In 2016, Claire was appointed Vice President of the Spinal Injuries Association. In her role as Vice President, Claire will be an advocate for the spinal cord injured community and assist the Spinal Injuries Association with their work in keeping their needs at the forefront of public affairs.
Claire was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the Queen’s 2016 Birthday Honours List in recognition of her services to Formula One.
Career Highlights
| 2016 | Appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire for services to Formula One |
| 2016 | Appointed Vice President of the Spinal Injuries Association |
| 2013 | Appointed Deputy Team Principal, Williams |
| 2012 | Appointed Director of Marketing and Communications, Williams |
| 2011 | Appointed Head of Communications and Investor Relations, Williams |
| 2010 | Appointed Head of Communications, Williams |
| 2002 | Joined Williams as Communications Officer |
| 2000 | Press Officer, Silverstone Circuit |
| 1999 | Degree in Politics from Newcastle University |
Claire Williams with Paddy Lowe entering the paddock for the 2017 Bahrain Grand Prix
Courtesy of WILLIAMS MARTINI RACING