Williams sign long-time Mercedes engineer for key technical role

Williams have announced the appointment of Dan Milner from rivals Mercedes to act as their new Chief Engineer – Vehicle Technology.

Milner joins Williams after a 20-year association with Mercedes, including a 14-year stint at the Brackley-based outfit across their Honda, Brawn GP and Silver Arrows eras.

During his time at the F1 operation, where he progressed from simulation and design roles into senior leadership, Milner played his part in multiple World Championship triumphs – including eight consecutive Constructors’ titles.

After several years heading up powertrain integration and transmission design, Milner most recently served as Chief Engineer for R&D (Research & Development).

Outside F1, he has held senior design roles in the America’s Cup sailing competition with Ineos Britannia, and has also worked in the defence sector.

Williams explained that Milner “will be accountable for Vehicle Technology, driving on- and off-car performance through complex, integrated technology programmes”.

He will also “champion first-principles engineering, accelerate development across hardware, simulation, test and quality, and embed strong links with car programmes to ensure rapid conversion of ideas into race performance”.

“I’m thrilled to be joining Atlassian Williams F1 Team as Chief Engineer across Vehicle Technology,” said Milner. “After 20 years of association with Brackley, it’s the right moment to take on a new challenge.

“Williams has a clear, ambitious plan to move forward, and I’m looking forward to bringing my experience and knowledge to help accelerate that journey. I can’t wait to meet the team, learn the organisation and get to work converting ideas into performance on track.”

Matt Harman, Williams’ Technical Director, added: “Dan brings broad experience and clear leadership. He has led major programmes across R&D and powertrains, turning ideas into performance, and he knows how to bring teams together to deliver.

“Dan will be central to our vehicle technology plan and to converting innovation into consistent performance gains on track, so we’re thrilled to have him on board as we continue our plans of bringing Atlassian Williams F1 Team back to the front of the grid.”