BRDC APPOINTS NEW MANAGEMENT TEAM

The British Racing Drivers’ Club (BRDC) has appointed a new management team at Silverstone Circuit to drive the business forward into 2015 and beyond. Over the last few months the BRDC has undertaken a thorough investigation of the organisation with a view to not only improving profitability but also to re-focus the team on enhancing the customer experience for every single person that comes through the circuit gates.

The Silverstone team will be led by Patrick Allen, who has been appointed Managing Director. Patrick has extensive experience in sales and marketing and will retain responsibility for the “Customer Proposition” aspects of the business. Patrick will be supported by Stuart Pringle who has been appointed to the new position of Sporting Director and will oversee the event management and circuit operations side of the business.

The renewed enthusiasm of the Silverstone team is already paying dividends, with advance sales for the 2015 British Grand Prix up 16% on 2014 with many grandstands already sold or close to selling out. Plans are afoot to make the 2015 event a four day festival of entertainment which will include concerts, pit walk and parades to support the on track action.

Commenting on his vision for the circuit Patrick Allen said “Silverstone has great potential to become the ultimate entertainment venue and with the support of the team I believe we can make it the place to go. I want our customers to know that they can visit the circuit any weekend of the year and be guaranteed an amazing value for money experience whether that is to watch motor racing, visit a music concert, enjoy a food festival or attend an exhibition.”

The previous executive directors, Richard Phillips (Managing Director), Ed Brookes (Finance & Resources Director) and David Thomson (Legal & Estates Director) have each agreed that, following the sale of the business park and development land, the time is right for them to leave the SCL business and pursue other opportunities. John Grant, BRDC Chairman, commented “This executive team has overseen significant growth and diversification of Silverstone’s business during its tenure, during which the Wing was built and the future of the British F1 Grand Prix secured. I would like to thank them for their contributions to Silverstone and wish them well for the future.”