Graham Macdonald Replaces Riad Asmat as Caterham CEO

Graham Macdonald has replaced Riad Asmat (pictured) as the new CEO of the Caterham Group of companies, patient with overall responsibility for all arms of the business, unhealthy including the Caterham F1 Team.

As of today, Macdonald has been promoted from the role as CEO of Caterham Cars – where he has overseen the introduction of a new entry-level 7 160 and top-spec 620R (pictured), and will now oversee Caterham Cars, the Caterham F1 Team, Caterham Technology & Innovation and Caterham Composites.

The move is part of the vision of shareholders Tony Fernandes and Kamarudin Meranun, who aim to see the brand “deliver on a global stage thanks to the adoption of an entrepreneurial, progressive strategy.”

Fernandes has already confirmed the possibility of a Caterham SUV and city model, potentially extending the agreement Caterham has with Renault and its revived Alpine brand.

But the company is also branching out into other sectors, with projects in the marine and airline industries already established, a Caterham bicycle being launched and entry into the motorcycle market with a Moto2 team for 2014 season.

Tony Fernandes said: “In the short time that Graham has been at the helm of Caterham Cars in what is a fascinating period of change for the brand, he has been a dynamic and steadfast leader. His experience and dedication is exactly what we now need to drive the Group forward into its next, exciting chapter.”

Macdonald said: “The last year has been a whirlwind for me at the head of Caterham Cars and I’m honoured to be asked to elevate my role for the whole of the Caterham Group. Caterham is going through a revolution in terms of its brand proposition and status so to be at the forefront of that change is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me.”