Claire Williams OBE led the Williams Formula One team until 2020, becoming one of only two women to head an F1 team in the modern era. Appointed Deputy Team Principal at just 36, she oversaw a period of renewed competitiveness, guiding the team to third place in the Constructors’ World Championship in both 2014 and 2015, its strongest results for more than a decade.
After graduating from Newcastle University with a degree in Politics, Claire joined Williams in 2002 and progressed through the organisation from the press office to Commercial Director in 2012, before taking on overall leadership the following year. In 2020, she led the successful sale of the team, safeguarding its future after more than four decades of family ownership. She is now a global Brand Ambassador for WAE Technologies and a respected analyst on Netflix’s Drive to Survive series. In recognition of her services to motorsport, she was awarded an OBE in 2016.
With more than 20 years in Formula One, Claire brings rare, first-hand insight into leading high-performance teams under extreme pressure. She understands the realities of running a complex, highly regulated global operation, spanning commercial strategy, innovation, culture, and talent development. A committed advocate for diversity and inclusion, she championed opportunities for women and underrepresented groups in motorsport, including supporting Susie Wolff’s historic return to an F1 race weekend in 2014. As Vice President of the Spinal Injuries Association, she also continues the legacy of her father, Sir Frank Williams, by supporting people living with spinal cord injuries.
Audiences gain practical insight into building resilient, high-performing teams, delivering meaningful organisational change in competitive settings. Claire draws on candid lessons from the front line of elite sport, sharing what it takes to lead one of the world’s most recognisable racing brands through transformation.
Book Claire to hear how principled leadership, innovation, and resilience can turn pressure into performance at the highest level of global sport.
How can I book Claire Williams for my next event?
Email claire.williams.obe@getapeptalk.com, or call us on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.
As speaker agents, PepTalk can secure Claire Williams for commercial and corporate events, conference keynotes, leadership talks, celebrity brand endorsements & partnerships, personal appearances, and motivational speaking engagements. We can assist with enquiries about Claire Williams's speaking fees, availability, and booking process for private business functions, industry conferences, and team events. Please note, for media interviews, autographs, charity appearances, or personal matters, we recommend contacting Claire directly.
What topics does Claire Williams specialise in?
Claire Williams specialises in discussing formula 1, team management, diversity in motorsport and more.
What is Claire Williams's speaking style like?
Claire delivers with honesty, transparency, and inspiration, sharing practical insights from her leadership journey. Audiences value her engaging presence, relatable stories, and ability to foster a positive, high-performing culture.
Does Claire Williams offer virtual speaking engagements?
Yes, Claire Williams offers virtual speaker bookings for webinars, online conferences, and remote or distributed team engagements.