Murphy started his new job this week after nine years with Volker Fitzpatrick.

Murphy’s new role is the latest in a string of high-profile appointments at McLaren as the national contractor continues its expansion plans.

Former Vinci group estimating director Tony Kavanagh has recently taken up a similar role at McLaren while property expert John Gatley is now heading-up the firm’s development and investment division.

Ex-Mace Living managing director Rob Kremis has also joined McLaren as a divisional director.

Murphy has a wealth of experience in commercial, industrial and education building projects.

He said: “I’m really excited about joining McLaren and the chance to help continue the phenomenal success they have enjoyed during the last few years.

“I’m not someone who jumps from job-to-job. I was with Fitzpatricks for nine years and the same amount of time before that with J F Finnegan in Sheffield.

“But the chance to join a company like McLaren was too good an opportunity to miss and I’ll be looking to keep the success going at the firm.”

McLaren chairman Kevin Taylor said: “The industry is in a state of flux at the moment as everyone hopes a private sector led recovery will compensate for falls in public spending.

“We have built a lot of our success on winning work in the private sector and the appointment of quality directors like David will ensure that continues.”

Group managing director Phil Pringle said: “Getting someone of David’s calibre is a real coup for us and we look forward to him contributing to our continued success.”