THE Grove-based WilliamsF1 team has named Adam Parr as the company's chief executive officer.

A Cambridge graduate, he started his career at the Japan desk of Barclays Investment Bank before joining Rio Tinto, one of the world's leading mining companies, in 1990. At Rio Tinto, he held a number of senior executive positions, including that of managing director of its industrial minerals business.

Mr Parr said: "I have followed Williams for many years and feel privileged to be able to work with the team. Next season marks the beginning of a new era for us and I am particularly excited about the opportunity to develop our partnerships with Toyota and the existing sponsors."

The principal of the team, Sir Frank Williams, said: "Adam is a passionate supporter of Formula One and Williams and I am confident that, with his wealth of experience, he will make a considerable contribution to the future progression of the business.