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Open Wheel: Reynard announces two key appointments

31 March 2000

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

Adrian Reynard, Chairman and Chief Executive, Reynard Motorsport, announced two key appointments within the company today. Mark Smithson, Sales Director, moves to become Managing Director of Reynard Motorsport Operations - UK and Bruce Ashmore, Technical Director, Reynard North America, is appointed President of Reynard Motorsport's North American operations. This includes Reynard North America, US race car manufacturer Riley & Scott and the company's wind tunnel and research facility in Indianapolis, the Auto Research Center.

The commercial operations of the company - sales of Champ Cars, Sports Cars and specialist customer programmes that Reynard undertakes - will be the prime area of responsibility for Mark Smithson, in addition to his role as managing director of the UK operations. Bruce Ashmore will be the central figure in the direction of the US operations while continuing to lead the technical support for the USA programmes.

Reynard, founder of the company explains, "One of the most important factors in the success of any company is its people. We've been closely reviewing our management structure over the last few months and identified the need for more defined reporting and a strengthening within the team. These two appointments reflect this. I will continue to lead the company with a strategic overview for its future, while Mark and Bruce head up the day-to-day operations of our numerous businesses."

Mark Smithson reviews the changes, commenting, "The UK operation has been undergoing a period of change for over a year now. We've taken on new projects and people and expanded the business into new facilities. I see my role as a co-ordinator of our diverse activities, which allows department heads and divisional directors to focus on their specialist areas, while I oversee and integrate them. "

Bruce Ashmore explains his new role, saying, "Two years ago Reynard North America was a satellite operation for Reynard's Champ Car programme providing customer support and parts sales for the Series. Since then we've seen a host of changes in the US with the purchase of Riley & Scott, the introduction of the 2KQ Sports racing car and the opening of the Auto Research Center. These changes have necessitated us reviewing our operations and the way in which they are managed. In my new role I'll be looking to integrate the different businesses to maximise our resources and share information to provide each operation with the tools, technology and people that they need to maintain the high standards that we set ourselves in producing winning cars."

Adrian Reynard also announced the retirement of Alex Hawkridge, former CEO of the company. Hawkridge has been involved with the company for over 20 years providing Adrian with advice and support in many areas of the business. Alex Hawkridge comments, "I've enjoyed a great relationship with Reynard and I will continue to be one of the company's biggest fans. Adrian and I share many personal and business interests, as well as being close friends. Although leaving the company, I'll keep in contact and have a keen interest in its future."

Text provided by Alison Hill

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