Ron Dennis has been re-appointed as CEO of the McLaren Group with immediate effect. The 66-year-old takes over from current Team Principal Martin Whitmarsh, whose future at the team is uncertain.

Dennis previously acted as CEO of the Group from 1982 to 2012 and was Team Principal of the marque’s Formula 1 arm between the 1982 and 2009 campaigns before becoming Group Chairman in 2013.

Whitmarsh inherited the role of CEO after Dennis stepped back from the front-line of the organisation, but last season the Woking-based outfit failed to record a single podium finish for the first time since 1980.

It has not yet been confirmed how the change in management structure will affect Whitmarsh.

“My fellow shareholders have mandated me to write an exciting new chapter in the story of McLaren, beginning by improving our on-track and off-track performance,” said Dennis after his expanded role was announced.

“Over the coming weeks I intend to undertake a thorough and objective review of each of our businesses with the intention of optimising every aspect of our existing operations, whilst identifying new areas of growth that capitalise on our technologies, and where appropriate further investing in them.

“During February, I will articulate a new Group strategy and implement the organisational structure best suited to achieving it. I am excited by the prospect of returning to the role of Group Chief Executive Officer and working with my many colleagues and fellow shareholders to fulfil our objective – which is to win at whatever we do.”

Dennis will remain Chairman of McLaren Automotive, the road car subsidiary of the brand.