Mercedes GP has further strengthened its technical base by recruiting both Geoff Willis and Aldo Costa.
Willis, who recently parted company with HRT, joins as Technology Director on October 17. He is already familiar with the Brackley team from his days with BAR/Honda.
Former Ferrari man Costa, a longtime associate of Ross Brawn, will become Engineering Director on December 1. Both will report to Technical Director Bob Bell.
The team says that: “Aldo will be responsible for design and development, and Geoffrey will head the aerodynamics, vehicle dynamics, control systems and simulation functions.”
Ross Brawn commented: “Geoff is a highly respected engineer with over twenty years of Formula One experience, and we look forward to his arrival next month. Having worked closely with Aldo for many years, I know that he will bring dedication and championship-winning expertise to the team when he joins in December.
“Building a winning team is an exciting challenge for us all as we work towards the competitiveness and standards that we aspire to as the Mercedes-Benz works team. With a strong technical structure led by Bob Bell, we are moving ourselves into the best possible position to achieve our ambitions.”
Adam Cooper F1 
I’m not convinced by this. These are respected individuals but I don’t see any of them as being the spark of genius that will get Mercedes to championship winning standard.
They are additions and not replacements, so it can only be positive. Also we have yet to see the fruits of Bob Bell’s work behind the scenes so there is every reason to expect a step forward.
Ahhh, but how much longer before the Mercedes board looses patience?
Re. BTW team still hasn’t officially confirmed that G Willis has left! 6 hours ago
Maybe he hasn’t! Willis was/is a consultant – having 2 contracts at once is great for IR35… I wish one of my clients (a well known OEM that should know better) was as IR35 compliant.
Adding the best available talent to the team. Smart move.
positive development..but its a long and torturous road ahead