The FIA has made fresh appointments with Alberto Villarreal and Alessandra Malhame joining in, after reported departure of comms head Luke Skipper and secretary general of mobility Jacob Bangsgaard.
The appointments mark a milestone in the FIA’s evolution which places greater emphasis on robust governance and financial performance and a sharper focus on people strategies and culture for sustained success.
Alberto Villarreal – FIA General Manager
Alberto Villarreal from Spain joins the FIA as General Manager, reporting directly to the FIA President and the President of the Senate. In his role, Alberto will oversee the operational and financial performance of the organisation, bringing leadership to the FIA Administration, ensuring alignment with the FIA’s strategic objectives, and prioritising the interests of FIA Members in decision-making.
With 28 years of experience in the automotive sector, including two decades in senior leadership roles at The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, Alberto brings extensive expertise in sales, marketing, retail, and telematics. His international background and proven leadership make him well-positioned to drive complex projects in competitive environments.
Alberto Villarreal said: “It is an honour to join the FIA at such a pivotal time. I look forward to working with Members, the President, the leadership team and all staff to achieve our shared goals of reform and growth.”
Alessandra Malhamé – Senior HR Director
Italian Alessandra Malhamé joins the FIA to provide strategic leadership in human resources, guiding HR operations and workplace strategies for the organisation.
Alessandra has spent over 20 years in leadership roles, including her time at Honeywell and most recently at Bristol Myers Squibb, where she led HR initiatives for the Global and Local Research and Development Organisation as well as continuing the transformation and harmonisation of company culture. Her expertise in organisation and talent development, culture building and engagement will be crucial as the FIA continues to optimise its human capital.
Alessandra Malhamé said: “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.”
Commenting on the senior appointments, the FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: “I am delighted to welcome Alberto and Alessandra to the team. 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. 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 key appointments come at a pivotal moment, ensuring strong and stable leadership as the FIA continues its mission to enhance performance across both Mobility and Sport. The addition of Alberto and Alessandra brings the number of nationalities throughout the FIA staff operations in Paris, Geneva, London and Valleiry to 33.
The FIA is undergoing a significant transformation under the leadership of Mohammed Ben Sulayem, its President since 2021. The President has championed a series of initiatives aimed at making the organisation more mission-driven, financially sustainable, environmentally-responsible, inclusive and people-focused.
The President’s efforts to integrate sustainability into motorsport were recently recognised by the United Nations, which appointed him a Sustainable Tourism Ambassador. The nomination highlights his role in promoting green practices across motorsport and mobility.
The FIA’s role in mobility remains crucial, particularly in advocating for safe, accessible and sustainable transport systems. Collaborating with international bodies and local governments, the FIA is working on projects that improve road safety and support the transition to sustainable and affordable transport systems. These efforts align with global goals to reduce emissions and create more equitable mobility solutions.
List of people who have left the FIA –
Luke Skipper: Director of communications
Jacob Bangsgaard: Secretary General of Mobility
Steve Nielsen: Sporting Director
Tim Goss: Singler-seater technical director
Deborah Mayer: Women in Motorsport Commission
Pierre Ketterer: Governance and regulatory director
Edward Floydd: Commercial legal affairs
Natalie Robyn: CEO
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[Note: The story is as per press release]
