FIA strengthens leadership team with two prominent appointments

The FIA has welcomed two high-profile executives to its leadership team: Alberto Villarreal as General Manager and Alessandra Malhamé as Senior HR Director.

The appointments come at a critical time for motorsport's world governing body, which has seen several key personnel departures in recent months.

Alberto Villarreal, a veteran of the automotive industry with senior roles at companies like Goodyear, joins the FIA as general manager.

Villarreal will report directly to FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem and to Carmelo Sanz de Barros, the president of the senate. The Spaniard’s responsibilities will include overseeing the FIA's operational and financial performance, a key role as the organization navigates a period of transition.

Reflecting on his new position, Villarreal expressed his enthusiasm for the challenge ahead.

"It is an honour to join the FIA at such a pivotal time," he said. "I look forward to working with members, the president, the leadership team and all staff to achieve our shared goals of reform and growth."

Alongside Villarreal, Alessandra Malhamé has been appointed senior HR director. Malhamé, will lead human resources operations, providing strategic oversight and driving initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity and innovation within the FIA.

The Italian will also work to simplify HR processes and empower staff as part of her mandate to enhance the workplace culture.

• Read also: FIA hit with more departures of senior figures

Malhamé emphasized the importance of a strong workforce in her role: "The strength of any thriving organisation lies in its people. My focus at the FIA will be on fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation, simplifying processes, and empowering employees to achieve our shared goals."

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem welcomed both Villarreal and Malhamé to the team, expressing confidence in their ability to contribute to the organization’s ongoing evolution.

"With Alberto’s vast leadership experience, I am confident he will drive sustainability in our financial performance, governance and operations and deliver value for our members," said Ben Sulayem.

"Alessandra brings a wealth of HR expertise to the federation. I am confident she will ensure the development of our most precious commodity – our people."

These new appointments follow a series of significant departures within the FIA's leadership this year. Most recently, the federation saw the exits of Luke Skipper, director of communications and public affairs, and Jacob Bangsgaard, secretary general of automobile mobility and tourism.

Earlier in the year, Deborah Mayer, who headed the FIA Women in Motorsport Commission, also stepped down, along with sporting director Steve Nielsen and single-seater technical director Tim Goss.

Nielsen has since transitioned to a role within Formula 1, while Goss is set to join Visa Cash App RB as the team's chief technical officer.

Other notable departures include head of commercial legal affairs Edward Floydd, governance and regulatory director Pierre Ketterer, and the FIA’s first CEO, Natalie Robyn, who left to pursue opportunities outside the organization.

With these leadership changes underway, Villarreal and Malhamé’s appointments signal the FIA’s commitment to strengthening its management team to ensure the organization remains well-positioned to meet the demands of the future, particularly in terms of operational excellence and people development.

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