A&P Group, the UK-based ship repair and conversion company, has named industry veteran David McGinley as its new managing director.

He takes over the post from Andy Shaw who recently took up the reigns as chief executive of Middle East ship repairer ASRY.

McGinley, a past president of the UK Shipbuilders and Ship Repairers Association, joins A&P from Babcock International where he spent 13 years.

His work at Babcock is said to have covered senior level roles that spanned strategic and business development and commercial port operations.

McGinley also spent more than 20 years in the British Royal Navy, which included tours of the Falkland Islands and the Gulf.

He also spent four years at Turner Diesel developing power generation contracts in Columbia, Malaysia, Africa and India.

“David has amassed a wealth of experience in UK based marine services, managing ship repair and dry dock facilities and associated businesses,” A&P Group said.

He takes on the responsibility for driving growth in the Tyneside, Teesside and Falmouth Marine Engineering Services businesses.

“I am delighted to welcome David into the business, his experience in the industry is second to none and he is respected by all,” said A&P Group chief executive John Syvret.

“He will be instrumental in building on the long established foundations, history and culture of the business, and will help drive and achieve the group’s growth plans and ambitions for the future.

“His appointment is indicative of A&P Group’s strong performance, sector diversification and hard-earned reputation for providing value for money solutions.”

McGinley, who is also chairmain of the Association of British Offshore Industries, said: “I have operated in the ship building and ship repair sector for many years and I am thrilled to join one of Europe’s largest provider of ship repair, conversion and specialist marine and engineering services groups.

“The calibre of its contracts across the defence, commercial marine, renewable and oil and gas sectors reflects the engineering strength of the company and I look forward to expanding the business in the UK and across the global market place.”