Renishaw Announces the Passing of Co-founder Sir David McMurtry

Renishaw has announced the passing of its co-founder and Non-Executive Director, Sir David McMurtry.

Sir David co-founded Renishaw 1973 with John Deer, a fellow Rolls-Royce engineer, to commercialize the 3D touch-trigger probe he invented in 1972. This innovation addressed measurement challenges in manufacturing Olympus engines for the Concorde aircraft. Before Renishaw, Sir David worked at Rolls-Royce for 17 years, where he became Deputy Chief Designer and the youngest Assistant Chief of Engine Design. He held 47 patents at Rolls-Royce and was named on over 200 patents at Renishaw.

Under his leadership, Renishaw transformed metrology and manufacturing with innovations such as coordinate measuring machines, shopfloor metrology, encoders, calibration systems, neurosurgery solutions, and additive manufacturing technologies. Today, Renishaw employs over 5,000 people across 36 countries and is globally recognized for its contributions to engineering and technology.

Sir David’s achievements brought him recognition worldwide, including awards from Japan and the USA, and he was knighted for “services to Design and Innovation.” His notable accolades were the ND Marketing Award in Japan, the James Watt International Gold Medal from IMechE, and a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to the UK manufacturing industry.

Renishaw remembers Sir David as a reserved man who avoided publicity but was passionate about mentoring young engineers. His innovative thinking and commitment to integrity have left a lasting legacy in the company and the global manufacturing industry.

Sir David McMurtry will be deeply missed by the Renishaw community and the broader engineering world.