Arrows Formula One hunts chief

Motor-racing team Arrows Formula One is hunting for its first marketing director as part of plans to boost the company’s commercial operations.

The business is also seeking a head of licensing and merchandising, and an e-commerce development manager.

The move has been instigated by Arrows’ new management line-up of chief executive Keith Shepherd, and chief financial officer Chris Hicks, who joined in November last year.

Both previously were involved in the management buyout of Rank Screen Advertising, which is now Carlton Screen Advertising, where they held similar positions.

Arrows F1, which is based in the UK, is keen to expand its global marketing programme, through sponsorship, hospitality and promotional activity.

Owner Prince Malik Ado Ibrahim secured a majority shareholding in the business for &£77m last year and is mooting a chain of retail outlets to sell merchandise, under the brand name “t-minus” (MW July 1 1999). Former owner Tom Walkinshaw still holds a stake in the company and runs the day-to-day business.

The team unveiled its new car at the end of last week, and has signed Dutchman Jos Verstappen and Spaniard Pedro de la Rosa to drive this season. Last year, Arrows scored only one world championship point.