Jenson Button (GBR) McLaren MP4-29. Formula One Testing, Jerez, Spain, Day Two, Wednesday, 29 January 2014. © Sutton Images
The move is part of a wider management restructure at the Woking team and follows McLaren Group chairman Ron Dennis’s appointment as chief executive officer in place of Martin Whitmarsh.
Frenchman Boullier, who left his position at Lotus last week, will work with chief operating officer Jonathan Neale and report to the chief executive officer of McLaren Racing, an all-new position which has yet to be filled, but which will be covered by Neale for the time being.
“First of all, I regard this appointment as an honour, a privilege and a wonderful opportunity,” said Boullier. “The McLaren Racing workforce and the facilities at the McLaren Technology Centre are world-class, and I’m hugely excited about the prospect of joining such an outstanding team.
“I’m both eager and determined to play an active part, working alongside McLaren Racing’s other senior managers and directors, within a new operational structure, to bring about the changes that will deliver success.
“Last, I want to take this opportunity to assure the McLaren Racing workforce that I’m utterly determined to match their famous passion and commitment to win.”
Commenting on the move, Dennis explained how Boullier’s appointment was part of a wider strategy.
“I’ve already personally conveyed to the entire workforce of the McLaren Group, which includes McLaren Racing, the values, principles and mindset that I intend us all to adopt, going forward,” he said.
“My intention is that from now on everyone at McLaren Racing will understand their responsibilities and accountabilities, focusing on their specific areas of expertise, in keeping with those values, principles and mindset.
“In due course we’ll announce the identity of McLaren Racing’s new Chief Executive Officer, who’ll report to me, and to whom Eric will report.
“I’m firmly of the belief that, once McLaren Racing’s restructured senior management team has been assembled, together we’ll begin the march back to full competitiveness, quickly and professionally, harnessing the fantastic depth of talent that exists within our organisation.”
McLaren’s new car, the Mercedes-powered MP4-29, made its track debut in Jerez on Wednesday with Jenson Button at the wheel.