Lowe, who departed Mercedes three weeks ago, had long been tipped to make the switch to Williams, following the departure of chief technical officer Pat Symonds last December.

However, the timing of such a move was unclear due to gardening leave commitments at Mercedes and the finalising of his role within the Williams organisation.

However, it is now understood that Lowe, 54, will become a main board director, alongside deputy team principal Claire Williams, group CEO Mike O’Driscoll and Nick Rose, non-executive chairman.

As a director, Lowe’s position within Williams will be more senior than that of Symonds, as he is understood to have bought a stake in the team. In terms of technical hierarchy, he will be the team’s most senior figure.

Lowe is tipped to start work on March 1, providing final details of his departure from Mercedes, relating to his freedom to work for another team, are concluded without delay.

Lowe's role at Mercedes is expected to be taken by James Allison, who split with Ferrari as technical director last August.

The imminent official announcement of Lowe's appointment at Williams is expected to clear the path for Mercedes to conclude its negotiations with Allison.

Autosport / Anthony Rowlinson, Dieter Rencken