Richard Ford

Questioner
DISC Type : c

Applications and Advanced Engineering Director at Protean Electric

Frensham, England, United Kingdom

Overview

Richard Ford is a visionary technical leader and the Applications and Advanced Engineering Director at Protean Electric. With a Ph. D. from the University of Cambridge, his expertise spans software, mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems, honed through leadership roles in advanced engineering and previously at McLaren Racing.

While at McLaren Racing, he was involved in designing the 2014 brake-by-wire system for Formula 1 cars.

Personality Overview

Systematic

Value Seeker

Not Easily Convinced

They are more likely than others to negotiate on pricing and terms.  While they don't hesitate to ask questions, they are generally risk-averse and tend to be late adopters. They prefer to fully evaluate every situation.

Topics They Care About

In-Wheel Motors
He is a public advocate and speaker on the benefits and applications of in-wheel motor technology for electric vehicles.
EV Powertrains
His career has progressed from leading powertrain projects at McLaren Racing to his current director role focusing on electric vehicle motor technology.
Advanced Engineering
His current role focuses on leading advanced product development and application engineering teams to create innovative solutions.

Media Appearances

Chief Engineer, Richard Ford, presents at the 2025 Advanced E‑Motor Conference. Featured in Protean Electric

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Managing Unsprung Mass – Everything We’ve Ever Been Asked. Featured in Protean Electric

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Protean Electric speaking and exhibiting in September. Featured in Protean Electric

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Work History

4-2025
Applications and Advanced Engineering Director at Protean Electric
3-2021 - 4-2025
Chief Engineer at Protean Electric
7-2018 - 3-2021
Vehicle Engineering and Controls Manager at Protean Electric
2-2016 - 1-2018
Principal Engineer at McLaren Racing
6-2005 - 2-2016
Team Leader Systems Engineering at McLaren Racing Ltd.

Education

1996 - 2000
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) from University of Cambridge
1995 - 1996
Master of Science (M.Sc.) from The University of Manchester

More Information

Social Presence :

Prographics :

Exp : 24 Location : Frensham, England, United Kingdom Job Level : Mid-senior Designation : Applications and Advanced Engineering Director at Protean Electric
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Insights For Selling To Richard

During A Call Or A Meeting

DO's

  • Emphasise more on facts and measurable benefits
  • Back up any claims with data and numbers
  • Emphasize on objective proof of ROI, help them do a thorough evaluation

DONT's

  • Avoid rushing them, be polite and patient
  • Don’t depend too much on anecdotal evidence, it reduces their confidence
  • Avoid phrases like ‘do not worry about’, ‘no one compares to’ etc.

When Cold Calling

When Writing An Email

While Negotiating & Closing

    The secret to closing fast with Richard is

  • Confidence that the product provides ROI, effective pricing and process adherence matter the most to them.

  • Will you ever get a clear answer from Richard

  • It doesn’t come naturally to them but they can say no if they are not convinced.

Insights For Deal Planning

    How fast (or slow) will Richard move?

  • They can move at a reasonable pace while making their decisions if they have the necessary information.

  • Can Richard take some risk or not?

  • If they believe that they have analyzed the situation well, they can take a little risk.

You And Richard

Personality Compatibility


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