MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — At the Miami Grand Prix, the orchestration of strategic planning and budget management are critical. Separate individuals are responsible for the construction of 163 temporary structures needed for the Formula 1 race weekend, the design of seating arrangements, and coordination of food and beverage requirements. Even catering to the demands and whims of celebrities, from their preferred drinks to specific throw pillows, falls under someone’s purview.
Remarkably, in Miami, these pivotal roles are all occupied by women. This is something the Miami Grand Prix highlights as a unique attribute of their race. While Formula 1 remains a male-dominated sport, and no female driver has competed since 1992, this weekend’s event places women at its helm in almost every aspect.
“I’m so proud,” stated Katharina Nowak, the Vice President of Business Operations for the Miami race. “The sheer talent of our team, regardless of gender, motivates everyone to strive for excellence. Daily, we challenge ourselves to uphold the high standards we’ve set, ensuring everyone does their best not to let anyone down.”
**Women at the Forefront**
The race is officially led by figures such as Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross, managing partner Tom Garfinkel, and race president Tyler Epp. However, many of the significant operational roles are filled by women:
– At just 28 years old, Nowak is the race’s second-in-command, managing strategic plans, the budget, and overseeing 17 departments, communicating fluently in four languages.
– Natalie Clark, the Senior Director of Event Operations, manages the logistical flow of everything being transported to the venue.
– Sydney McClain, as the Senior Director of Events and Food and Beverage, is responsible for shaping the entire fan experience across the spacious 250-acre site.
– Melanie Cabassol, Vice President of Hospitality and Curated Experiences, crafts extraordinary atmospheres for elite clientele including figures such as LeBron James, Patrick Mahomes, Elon Musk, and Jeff Bezos in past years.
“I’ve worked elsewhere where it wasn’t typical to be surrounded by women spearheading various business initiatives,” reflected McClain. “This is unique and exciting, and we’re grateful for the women leaders who paved the way before us.”
**The Race’s Economic Influence**
In its fourth year, the Miami race is part of a broad array of activities held at the Hard Rock campus, home to the Dolphins, Miami Hurricanes football, concerts, soccer events like the Club World Cup this year, the FIFA World Cup next year, and the Miami Open tennis tournament. To date, the F1 race has contributed over $1 billion to the local economy.
Miami’s female-led charge is not isolated within the industry. Emily Prazer serves as F1’s Chief Commercial Officer, and until recently, Sacha Woodward Hill was the Chief Legal Officer for nearly three decades.
“It’s a great testament to how much the industry has advanced that this isn’t considered unusual anymore,” noted Susie Wolff, managing director of the F1 Academy, an all-women racing series. “This reflects the progress made.”
**The Logistics Behind the Race**
Preparing for the race week in Miami is a year-round task, involving eight months of planning, three months of execution, and finally, the month of the event itself.
Clark manages the logistics of assembling structures and utilities like plumbing lines and generators, dealing with architects and construction firms to bring these plans to life.
“Early in my career, I faced skepticism,” Clark explained. “But as you demonstrate expertise in your field, the questions fade away.”
Cabassol meticulously oversees swanky venues like the Palm Club, ensuring every detail, from Champagne glasses to the décor, meets her exacting standards. Her team offers unparalleled VIP services referred to as the “white glove team,” subtly managing interactions to ensure guests enjoy themselves thoroughly.
She and her team excel at blending luxurious hospitality with privacy and discretion, employing strategic measures to accommodate guests’ preferences and keeping guests who dislike each other separate when necessary.
“I’m proud to be part of a team that recognizes and amplifies talent, regardless of gender,” Cabassol expressed. This sentiment is echoed by Nowak, Clark, McClain, and their colleagues as they collectively push boundaries and redefine what’s possible.