Longtime Indianapolis Motor Speedway exec departing for Austin track

Circuit of The Americas, the Formula One track in Austin, Texas, on Feb. 12 named Mel Harder as senior vice president and general manager

Harder joins the Circuit’s executive team following 22 years with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where he oversaw operations and facilities management for the home of the Indianapolis 500, Brickyard 400 and MotoGP’s Red Bull Indianapolis GP.

Harder will report directly to Circuit of The Americas President Steve Sexton and assume his responsibilities March 1. In his new role, Harder will manage the Circuit’s motorsports and facility operations; transportation, security, safety and medical teams; and serve as operational liaison with local, state and federal agencies.

Harder most recently served as senior vice president of operations for IMS and managed both business affairs and facility operations. He led the teams that oversaw track operations, maintenance, engineering, ticketing, guest services, food and beverage, retail, creative services, and golf course management.