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Helix, a leading UK manufacturer of power-dense electric motors and inverters, has appointed Graham Belgum as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective June 2, 2025. The move positions the company for its next phase of global expansion, with Belgum succeeding co-founder Darren Cairns.
Key Highlights
- Graham Belgum has been named the new CEO of Helix, with his appointment taking effect on June 2, 2025.
- He succeeds company co-founder Darren Cairns, who is transitioning to a senior advisory role after 27 years.
- Belgum brings a wealth of leadership experience in vehicle electrification, including roles at Fortescue Zero and Switch Mobility.
- The appointment is a key part of Helix’s strategy to accelerate its growth and expansion across the globe.
A New Era of Leadership
The appointment marks a significant transition for Helix. Darren Cairns, who co-founded the business 27 years ago, is stepping down from his role as CEO. He will remain a vital part of the company’s future, continuing in a senior advisory capacity to ensure a smooth leadership transition.
Cairns expressed his pride in the company’s success and his confidence in the new leadership. “I’m certain Graham is the right person to lead this business and know that Helix will continue to thrive under his leadership,” he stated.
Extensive Electrification Experience
Belgum is a chartered engineer who brings an extraordinary depth of experience to Helix, particularly in bringing new electric vehicles to market. He joins the company from Fortescue Zero (formerly Williams Advanced Engineering), where he served as General Manager for Heavy Industry. In this role, he was responsible for creating and industrializing modular battery power systems for off-road applications.
Prior to Fortescue Zero, Belgum was the President and later CEO of Optare. There, he led the company’s electrification program, laying the groundwork for its successful rebrand as Switch Mobility. His earlier career includes senior leadership positions at Condor Ferries and First Group UK, as well as serving as the overall engineering manager for the Challenger Main Battle Tank fleet in the British Army.
Driving Global Growth
Belgum joins Helix at a pivotal moment as the company aims to capitalize on the rapidly growing demand for electric propulsion systems. “With its exceptional offering of innovative electric propulsion and control solutions… the company is perfectly placed as we accelerate our growth across the globe,” Belgum said.
This strategic appointment is part of a broader effort to strengthen Helix’s senior management team. Earlier this year, the company also welcomed Warren Roberts as Chief Operating Officer and Dr. Mike Bolen as Sales Director for North America.
About Helix
Based in Milton Keynes, UK, Helix is a premier designer and manufacturer of the world’s most power-dense electric motors and inverters. The company provides high-performance electric powertrains for a wide range of applications, including motorsport, hypercars, aerospace, and marine industries. Its technology has been featured in high-profile projects such as Formula E, the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar, and the E1 Race Series.
From its state-of-the-art production facility, Helix offers a secure, end-to-end supply solution for its proprietary Scalable Core Technology products. For more information, visit the company’s website at ehelix.com.
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