Caterham CEO Bob Laishley Steps Down Amid Leadership Shift

Bob Laishley, who joined Caterham in 2021 as Chief Strategic Officer before taking on the dual CEO and COO roles in mid-2022, has stepped down with immediate effect, according to a brief company statement.

The announcement provided no further detail, leaving questions about whether Laishley is retiring or moving to another venture.

The timing appears abrupt. According to industry sources, including early tips received by PistonHeads, Laishley's exit was anticipated only weeks before it became official — suggesting this wasn't a long-planned transition.

Despite the lack of an official statement from Laishley himself, his impact on Caterham's direction is undeniable. Under his leadership, the company navigated a pivotal modernization phase while staying true to its minimalist, driver-focused ethos that defines British sports car engineering.

Leadership Transition: VT Holdings Takes the Helm

In the interim, Trevor Steel, Caterham's Chief Financial Officer and Operations Director, will oversee daily operations. Meanwhile, Kazuho Takahashi, president and founder of VT Holdings — Caterham's parent company — will assume the role of Chief Executive in addition to his existing responsibilities.

Takahashi expressed his gratitude for Laishley's contributions, stating:

"I would like to thank Bob, on behalf of everyone at Caterham, for his work over the last four years. He has played an important role in overseeing the move to our new global headquarters in Dartford and securing the long-term future of our iconic car."

At this stage, it remains unclear whether Takahashi's appointment as CEO is permanent or temporary while Caterham searches for a long-term replacement.

A Legacy of Growth and Innovation

Laishley's tenure coincided with one of Caterham's most significant periods of development since its acquisition by VT Holdings in 2021. His strategic direction saw the company relocate to a new global headquarters in Dartford, streamlining operations and setting the stage for future expansion.

Under his guidance, Caterham introduced the first turbocharged engine in its Academy race car, signaling a shift toward broader performance options while maintaining the brand's purist appeal. More notably, the unveiling of the Project V electric coupe hinted at how Caterham could embrace electrification without sacrificing its lightweight performance DNA.

These initiatives have strengthened the company's long-term outlook and reaffirmed its commitment to blending innovation with tradition — a balance that few heritage automakers manage so effectively.

What's Next for Caterham?

The sudden leadership change raises questions about Caterham's strategic direction, particularly regarding electrification and product development. Industry analysts will be watching closely to see if VT Holdings continues to back the ambitious Project V program and the firm's expansion into modern powertrain technologies.

For now, the message from Dartford appears to be one of continuity. With the new factory operational and a clear pipeline of product development already underway, Caterham's foundation remains solid. Enthusiasts and the broader community will be hoping that the next chapter builds on Laishley's progress rather than diverging from it.

Expert Insight: A Turning Point for an Iconic Brand

Caterham has always been a brand defined by its clarity of purpose — lightweight engineering, pure driving dynamics, and an unwavering connection to motorsport. Laishley's leadership reflected that ethos while positioning the company to survive in a rapidly changing automotive landscape.

His ability to balance heritage with forward-thinking projects like Project V earned respect across the industry. The challenge for Takahashi and the VT Holdings team will be to sustain that momentum without diluting the qualities that make a Caterham unique.

In an era when small, independent carmakers face mounting pressures from electrification, regulation, and consolidation, Caterham's resilience remains a notable success story — and its next moves will determine whether it continues to thrive as a niche performance brand.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead

Bob Laishley's departure closes a pivotal chapter in Caterham's modern history, defined by transformation and bold ambition. While his exit appears sudden, his legacy — from new facilities to product innovation — leaves the company well-positioned for the future.

As Kazuho Takahashi steps in to guide the brand, enthusiasts and insiders alike will be watching to see how Caterham navigates the next phase of its journey. Whether through continued innovation or a renewed focus on core models, one thing is certain: Caterham's spirit of pure, unfiltered driving remains alive and well.