Ricardo has appointed long-serving executive Jason Oms O’Donnell as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) as the engineering specialist enters a new chapter following its acquisition by WSP and the planned separation of its automotive and manufacturing businesses.
O’Donnell, who joined Ricardo as an automotive graduate and has spent 25 years with the company, succeeds Graham Ritchie as CEO. His appointment follows WSP’s acquisition of Ricardo in October 2025, with the Canadian engineering consultancy set to integrate Ricardo’s environmental, energy consulting and rail businesses into its operations from July 2026 while pursuing the divestment of the company’s automotive and manufacturing divisions.
Despite the planned divestment, Ricardo told The Manufacturer there will be no changes to its UK manufacturing operations as a result of the transition.
Founded in 1915 by Sir Harry Ricardo, the company has played a significant role in the development of propulsion systems, powertrain technologies and energy solutions, supporting customers across the automotive, defence, energy and industrial sectors for more than a century.
Alongside the leadership announcement, Ricardo unveiled a refreshed corporate brand designed to reflect both its engineering heritage and its future focus on advanced propulsion, sustainable energy and industrial innovation.
“It is a privilege to lead Ricardo into its next phase,” said O’Donnell. “For more than a century, this company has shaped the evolution of mobility and energy systems. Sir Harry Ricardo’s belief in using emerging technologies and fuels to improve efficiency and eliminate waste remains at the heart of who we are – a legacy that will continue to guide us in the years ahead.”
The appointment comes at a pivotal time for Ricardo as it undergoes one of the most significant transformations in its 110-year history. While WSP has confirmed its intention to divest the automotive and manufacturing businesses, Ricardo said no buyer has yet been identified, adding that further information will be shared by WSP “in due course”.
The company said O’Donnell’s appointment reinforces Ricardo’s position as a trusted engineering partner while providing continuity during the transition. Having spent his entire career with the business, he will lead the company as it builds on its heritage of engineering innovation while preparing for its next phase of growth.
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