Helix, the UK-based developer of high-power-density electric motors and inverters, has appointed Graham Belgum as chief executive officer as the company enters a new phase of international growth.

Belgum joins Helix after three years at Fortescue Zero, previously Williams Advanced Engineering, where he was general manager for heavy industry. In that role, he led the development and industrialisation of modular battery systems for off-road applications, including in the mining sector. He is also known for his time as president and then CEO of Optare, where he led its electrification strategy and the transition to Switch Mobility.

Earlier in his career, Belgum held senior roles at Condor Ferries and First Group UK. He also served in the British Army, where he was the engineering manager for the Challenger Main Battle Tank fleet.

“I’m thrilled to be joining Helix at this truly exciting time,” said Belgum. “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.”

Belgum succeeds Helix co-founder Darren Cairns, who is stepping down as CEO after 27 years but will remain with the company in an advisory role.

“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,” said Cairns. “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.”

Helix, a trading name of Integral Powertrain Ltd, has already expanded its senior leadership team in 2025 with the appointments of Warren Roberts as chief operating officer and Dr Mike Bolen as sales director for North America. Headquartered in Milton Keynes, Helix supplies scalable electric motors, inverters and drive units to a range of high-growth mobility sectors including Formula E motorsport, aerospace, marine, hypercars, motorcycles and electric yachts.