Ex-McLaren aero man McKiernan joins Williams

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McLaren's former head of aerodynamics Doug McKiernan has joined Williams as the team's chief engineer, and will work directly alongside tech boss Paddy Lowe.

Lowe and McKiernan previously collaborated at McLaren, with the latter leaving the Woking-based team in 2015, right at the beginning of the outfit's dismal three-year partnership with Honda.

"Having worked with Doug closely between 2007 and 2012, I am sure that his talent and experience will significantly strengthen our team and we are delighted that he is joining us," said Lowe.

Lowe targets continued evolution over revolution at Williams

"Since returning to Williams last year, it has become clear that in order to help move the team forward we need greater engineering resources."

McKiernan began his Formula One career at McLaren in 1999 as an Aerodynamic Analyst, moving up to the roles of Chief Aerodynamicist, Head of Aerodynamics and finally Chief Engineer, before stepping down in 2015.

"It is a pleasure to be joining Williams," said the engineer.

"The team has exciting plans for the future, and it is great to see the work already being done with the aerodynamic and engineering teams to produce the FW41, whilst also looking ahead to future cars as Williams continues its charge to move further forwards on the grid.

"The team already has a strong engineering department, and I hope that I can further add to that to continue driving forward the development of the FW41 and future cars."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.