The FIA has filled two top positions, following a previous exodus from the governing body. Alberto Villarreal and Alessandra Malhamé have been appointed as the new General Director and Senior HR Director of the FIA, respectively. They join the governing body at a time when four top officials have already left since December.
Spanish national Villareal succeeds Natalie Robyn, the first CEO of the FIA who left in May. Robyn was the fourth top official to leave the governing body since December. Prior to her departure, Sporting Director Steve Nielsen, Single-Seater Technical Director Tim Goss, and Women’s Commission Head Deborah Mayer had already left. Additionally, the Director of Communications, Secretary-General of Mobility, Head of Commercial Legal Affairs, and the Director of Governance and Regulation also vacated their positions.
Villareal is not the only one starting a new role within the FIA. He is joined by Italian Malhamé, who begins her role as Senior HR Director. “The strength of any thriving organization lies in its people,” Malhamé said in the official press release. “My focus at the FIA will be on fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation, simplifying processes, and empowering employees to achieve our common goals.”
Inclusivity and Sustainability
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem is very pleased with the new appointments. “I am delighted to welcome Alberto and Alessandra to the team,” said the FIA President. “I am confident that Alberto, with his extensive leadership experience, will enhance the sustainability of our financial performance, governance, and operations and create value for our members. Alessandra brings a wealth of HR expertise to the federation. I am confident that she will ensure the development of our most valuable asset: our people.”
The two appointments are part of a larger transformation of the FIA, where inclusivity and sustainability are high priorities. Recently, Ben Sulayem was appointed by the United Nations as a Sustainable Tourism Ambassador.
