Milton Keynes, UK, 10 June 2025 – Helix, the UK-based manufacturer behind the world’s most power-dense electric motors and inverters, has named Graham Belgum as its new Chief Executive Officer. The appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for the cutting-edge electrification firm, as it accelerates international growth and deepens its footprint across high-performance electric mobility markets.
Belgum steps into the role with a formidable track record in electric vehicle innovation and industrialisation. He succeeds Helix co-founder Darren Cairns, who after nearly three decades at the helm, will transition into a senior advisory position, continuing to shape the company’s strategic direction alongside Belgum.
A chartered engineer with deep-rooted expertise in electrification, Belgum most recently served as General Manager for Heavy Industry at Fortescue Zero (formerly Williams Advanced Engineering). There, he spearheaded the creation of scalable battery systems for demanding off-road sectors such as mining—solutions poised to transform traditionally carbon-intensive industries.
Earlier in his career, Belgum led the electrification strategy at Optare, later renamed Switch Mobility, helping to reposition the brand as a key player in electric public transport. Additional leadership roles at First Group, Condor Ferries, and the Hinduja Group, coupled with early engineering command experience in the British Army overseeing the Challenger Main Battle Tank fleet, round out a uniquely multifaceted leadership portfolio.
Commenting on his appointment, Belgum said:
“I’m thrilled to be joining Helix at this truly exciting time. With its exceptional offering of innovative electric propulsion and control solutions across a wide range of sectors – including automotive, aerospace, marine and defence – the company is perfectly placed as we accelerate our growth across the globe. I also want to pay tribute to Darren, whose hard work and dedication over the past three decades has helped cement Helix’s status as a pioneer and market leader.”
Cairns echoed that sentiment, stating:
“As one of Helix’s founders, this company has been an integral part of my professional life, and I’m incredibly proud of the success we’ve achieved together. However, I’m certain Graham is the right person to lead this business and know that Helix will continue to thrive under his leadership. This is an exciting new era for Helix and I am extremely positive about what lies ahead.”
The leadership transition comes amid a broader strategic scaling effort by Helix. In recent months, the company has bolstered its executive team with key hires, including Warren Roberts as Chief Operating Officer and Dr. Mike Bolen as Sales Director for North America. These appointments align with Helix’s ambition to serve a growing customer base in critical innovation hubs across the globe.
Based in Milton Keynes, Helix designs, develops and manufactures all its high-performance electric powertrains in-house. The company’s scalable technologies are already at work in an array of high-growth markets, from Formula E and hypercars like the Aston Martin Valkyrie and Czinger 21c, to next-generation VTOL aircraft, high-performance motorcycles, space launch systems, and electric marine vessels such as those competing in the E1 Race Series and the MAGIC CARPET-e sailing yacht.
As the electrification revolution intensifies across industries, Belgum’s appointment signals Helix’s intent to remain at the forefront of innovation—offering the performance, scalability, and engineering excellence needed to power the future of mobility.
