Claire Williams OBE

Under her leadership, Claire Williams achieved third place in the World Championship for Constructors twice. Today, Claire serves as a global Brand Ambassador for WAE Technologies, formerly known as Williams Advanced Engineering, which focuses on decarbonising heavy transport through advanced, sustainable technologies. Her late father, Sir Frank Williams, founded the Williams Grand Prix Engineering F1 team, which won nine Constructors’ Championships and seven Drivers’ Championships.

Claire graduated from Newcastle University with a degree in Politics before beginning her career as a Press Officer for Silverstone Circuit. She then joined Williams as Communications Officer, eventually rising to Head of Communications and Head of Investor Relations, before being appointed Commercial Director.

When Frank Williams stepped down, Claire became the Williams family representative on the company’s board and was appointed Deputy Team Principal, effectively leading the team and overseeing its development and day-to-day operations. Frank Williams retained the Team Principal title in recognition of his founding role and lifelong dedication to Williams Racing.

Claire has been one of the most prominent and successful women in recent Formula 1 history. After leading the team to consecutive third-place finishes in the Constructors’ Championships during her second and third years in charge, she continued to secure top 5 finishes in subsequent years. Claire was a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion within Williams Racing and across the sport, giving Susie Wolff the opportunity to become the first female driver to participate in a Formula 1 race weekend since the 1990s.

As Vice President of the Spinal Injuries Association, Claire championed the inclusion of spinal cord-injured individuals in the team, creating workplace opportunities for wheelchair users. She also launched the Sir Frank Williams Academy, which provides life-changing care for spinal cord-injured people, with support from the Williams Racing team.

Following the successful sale of the Williams F1 team, Claire has offered consultancy services to brands entering Formula 1 and is a sought-after speaker at corporate events, where she shares her insights on leading high-performing teams. In recognition of her contributions to Formula One, she was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.