Working in TIG: What to expect in our F1 tech jobs

At Atlassian Williams Racing, technology is central to every aspect of performance, from car design to how we collaborate as a team. Our Technology & Innovation Group (TIG) fuels our competitive edge, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether through cutting-edge AI or innovative data systems, these technology jobs drive our mission to return to the top of Formula 1.

To get an inside look at what it’s like working in technology in our TIG team, we spoke with some of our leaders in tech. Here’s a glimpse into day-to-day life at TIG and how these technology roles create our winning formula. 

What the tech team does at Williams 

The TIG team at Williams builds, maintains, and enhances the tech systems at the heart of our operations. From enterprise systems that keep everything running smoothly to software tools that optimise car performance, we rely on the best technology to chip away at the competition. 

We spoke to some of our tech experts to dig deeper into their place in TIG.

Ben Ellins, Head of Enterprise Systems 

“Enterprise systems in TIG are the core backbone of applications that we buy to run the organisations, across finance, supply chain and the design office. We call it ‘the engine’ because it really does keep the company going, and we use best in class tools to do that. We work with big partners and need good integration to make them all work together.” 

Ben Buckley, Head of Software and Data Engineering 

“Some of our software engineers work with aerodynamics, some with vehicle dynamics, and some with performance, so that’s covering a lot of the design and racing team pipeline. The data engineering side is more around how we build a more unified data platform to enable teams to do their jobs better. We’re trying to modernize our systems using better tech so people can get to the data they need.” 

Sorin Cheran, Chief iInformation and Analytics Officer 

“We provide technology service and innovation programmes to the entire business and all teams at Williams. We’re all about pushing the boundaries of technology and data to also push the boundaries of performance. We’re trying to get Williams back to where it’s supposed to be. We made history and now we’re making history again by creating our winning formula with technology, data, AI, and most importantly people.” 

What makes Williams attractive for tech jobs in F1? 

Working at Williams means taking a historic team back to the top of Formula 1. This challenge is what draws many talented tech professionals in. Ben Ellins shared his motivation. 

“It’s clear that we’re making the right long-term investments with a vision of being on the podium in 2028. That’s inspirational to me. Since I’ve joined, not only have we been winning points, but the intent hasn’t changed. No matter how many places up the grid we climb, we’re still playing for the long term.” 

Ben Buckley agreed. “I joined Williams because I worked in F1 20 years ago and thought it was the most fun job I’ve ever had. There's no industry where the end goal is as clear as F1. There's no question about what we’re aiming for. At Williams, the growth and reboot journey with James Vowles and his team makes it clear what we needed to work on in TIG.” 

In TIG, you'll work alongside F1 enthusiasts who share your drive. Not everyone comes here with a love for the sport, but it doesn’t take long for the Formula 1 bug to bite. Sorin shared the importance of his own connection with Williams.

“I joined Williams because of the journey. Williams is a team I’ve supported since I was young! I’m here to push the team and to see us back on the podium and be able to say I’ve been a part of that. Here, I can make real impact and support the winning formula.” 

How we integrate new technologies 

Margins are razor-thin in Formula 1, and bringing in the latest technologies is how we gain an edge. TIG is always looking for the next breakthrough, while ensuring seamless implementation. Ben Ellins shared the strategy behind tech adaptation.

“We start by asking what we want to achieve and why? We structure our approach around the outcomes and focus on the business value, be it time on the car, cost savings, people time savings, increased efficiency or output.  

“We then analyse the processes to allow us to find the best fit within our existing tools or, if lacking that, evaluating the market. Introducing new capabilities is never just a ‘technology thing’. The change is significant to our business and people, and we ensure we prepare our personnel for the new environment.  

“Once a new solution is live, we track its adoption and value realisation to ensure it’s driving the expected impact. This ongoing focus on value is critical for continued success.” 

Why challenges are opportunities in F1 tech jobs 

There's often roadblocks when working in Formula 1. For those in TIG, it’s these challenges that keep the wheels turning, giving us opportunities to improve and innovate. Ben Buckley showed how leadership navigates challenges to keep the tech team on track. 

“We have lots to do for lots of teams across Williams. As a leadership team we have to establish a clear set of priority projects to deliver, so that our teams can focus on the most valuable work.”  

Ben Ellins sees the long-term vision as a useful guide when overcoming obstacles. 

“What’s great about Williams is the strategic intent. Our goal is to be race-winning by 2028. This helps us to set the intent and agenda. We manage challenges by having clear governance structures. This helps us make tough decisions and ensure our work today is aligned with long-term goals.” 

Career growth and development in technology jobs 

We’re committed to helping our team members to find their place, wherever that might be. From early careers programmes to encouraging lateral moves, Williams is built on continuous learning. Our F1 technology jobs are no different. As Ben Buckley shared, there are plenty of opportunities to develop. 

“Williams offers some great personal development courses and has supported several of my group becoming people managers. We encourage independent learning, offer opportunities to go to conferences, and aim to share knowledge as much as possible. We’ll also have internal opportunities to mentor newer members of the team.”  

The opportunities for internal talent are also visible in Enterprise Systems, as Ben Ellins highlighted. 

“We’ve been growing rapidly in Enterprise Systems. We’ve seen internal promotions and continue to seek opportunities for existing talent. Through challenging projects, people develop with excellent support from their line managers. We encourage collaboration and request that learnings are shared back to peer groups.”  

What skills and temperaments are needed to thrive in the tech team 

Success in tech jobs require more than technical prowess. Mindset is just as important. These F1 tech jobs require quick thinking under pressure as we improve all aspects of our systems in pursuit of the podium. Formula 1 moves fast, and so does our tech team. Ben Ellins and Sorin Cheran described the type of technology expert that the team is looking for. 

“Those that thrive in uncertainty. You have to ask big questions, find solutions, and be confident in doing so. Staying curious, as well. to make sure we have all the information before we provide solutions while also having the excellence to go and drive the value we need.”  

“We’re looking for people who love to solve complex problems. People who want to feel uncomfortable, who want to push the boundaries of what we do. Here, you can make real impact, right now and as we strive for better in the years to come.” 

Why should you explore technology jobs at Williams? 

Unsure if a tech job at Williams is right for you? If you’re passionate about F1 and keen to shape the future of racing, there’s no better place to take your technology career. Ben Buckley and Ben Ellins shared why it’s a great time to join the TIG team. 

“There’s so much to do and a great appetite to get it done. If you’re not sure where you fit, get in touch anyway!” 

“Williams continues to see Technology and Innovation as a mechanism to evolve and win multiple championships. This means we’re seeing significant investment, support, and opportunity to do big things. We’re only limited by our capacity, and our business is extremely eager to engage and transform. For an IT professional, this is hugely exciting.” 

Find your place in TIG 

At Williams, you can work on groundbreaking projects and be part of a team that’s writing the next chapter in our history. Whether you’re an experienced tech expert or just starting your career, you can create our winning formula with a job in TIG. 

Ready to join? Explore our latest F1 technology jobs or join our talent community to stay up to date.