Claire Williams becomes Williams deputy

Sir Frank Williams has named his daughter Claire Williams as the Formula One teams new deputy team principal.

The Williams team have been forced into a few managerial changes following the departures of Chairman Adam Parr and executive director Toto Wolff.

Parr departed just over twelve months ago while Wolff left Williams in January to take over at Mercedes.

The move according to a team statement creates a clear succession path for Williams.

The 36-year-old had been set to be confirmed in her new role before the start of the season, but the announcement was delayed following the death of her mother and Frank’s wife, Lady Virginia Williams.

Claire Williams started working for the team 11 years ago as a press officer, before slowly working her way up through the team to her current position as commercial director.

She becomes the second woman in a position of power amongst the Formula One teams in the paddock with Monisha Kaltenborn working as team principal of Sauber.

?Over the past decade Claire has worked tirelessly for Williams. Her knowledge of the sport and passion for the team is unquestionable and I?m proud to say that during her time here she has proven herself to be one of our most valuable assets. Sir Frank Williams told formula1.com.

?With Claire being appointed deputy team principal, I know the future of Williams is in extremely safe hands. This appointment also had Ginny?s [Lady Virginia Williams] blessing who I know would have been incredibly proud to have seen Claire taking on this position by my side.??

Claire Williams added: ?I?m truly honoured to be taking on the role of deputy team principal and look forward to working alongside Frank to help run the team this season and beyond.