Renault has revamped its aerodynamics department, the French outfit recruiting former Williams man Dirk de Beer who replaces Peter Machin as Head of Aerodynamics with immediate effect.
De Beer - who previously worked at Ferrari and Lotus - left Williams earlier this season in the wake of the Grove-based outfit's catastrophic start to its 2019 campaign.
De Beer's work in Enstone's aero department will be supported "by a Deputy Head of Aerodynamics who will join in the course of next year from another team".
Vince Todd shall take on this role on an interim basis until his arrival, while James Rodgers, currently Principal Aerodynamicist in charge of future car projects, is promoted to a new position of Chief Aerodynamicist, responsible for Aerodynamic performance development.
"In 2019 we have shown some strengths, but identified areas that needed reinforcement," said Renault team principal Cyril Abiteboul.
"After a rapid growth of our aerodynamic department and a modernisation of our equipment, the strengthening of the management layer of this key department will help us reap the benefits of our investments.
"This is particularly relevant as we enter a very important year in our midterm plan with the 2021 aerodynamic regulations now confirmed."
Renault stated that Peter Machin had left the team by mutual consent.
Renault F1 director Marcin Budkowski added: "We are delighted to welcome Dirk as Head of Aerodynamics.
"His proven technical and management skills make him the perfect profile to lead such a large and complex department.
"James has demonstrated a strong ability to generate performance and this new role will enable him to steer the aerodynamic development of all our car projects.
"These changes are the next step in the restructuring of Renault F1 Team’s Chassis operation in Enstone and I am confident that they will allow us to resume our progress towards the front of the grid."
Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers
Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter
