News / Obituaries
Engineering stalwart and business founder dies aged 84
David McMurtry, a pioneering innovator and co-founder of the South West-based engineering firm Renishaw, has passed away at the age of 84.
Renishaw, which operates in 36 countries, employs over 5,000 people and is one of the biggest success stories to come out of the South West.
McMurtry leaves behind a rich legacy in engineering, innovation, and business, with around 200 patents to his name. Of these, 150 of which were awarded for Renishaw inventions.
Before co-founding Renishaw in 1973 with fellow Rolls-Royce engineer John Deer, McMurtry had amassed extensive experience at Rolls-Royce, where he registered an impressive 47 patents.
David McMurtry, co-founder of Renishaw has some 200 patents to his name – photo: Renishaw
The duo founded Renishaw to commercialise the 3D touch-trigger probe for coordinate measuring machines.
This invention, developed in 1972 to solve measurement challenges in the production of Concorde’s Olympus engines, revolutionised the industry.
McMurtry’s 17-year career at Rolls-Royce was distinguished by his rise to deputy chief designer and becoming the youngest-ever assistant chief of engine design.
Under his leadership, Renishaw expanded beyond metrology into areas like neurosurgery and additive manufacturing, pioneering technologies that remain integral to modern manufacturing.
Renishaw was built on McMurtry’s vision of long-term investment, technological innovation, and ethical practices. His approach emphasised integrity and partnership with customers and local communities, principles that continue to define Renishaw’s culture.
Dave McMurtry founded Renishaw with his colleague at Rolls-Royce, John Deer back in 1973 – photo: Renishaw
Renishaw was not McMurtry’s only venture. The eponymous car brand was founded when he was well into his 70s showing no sign of slowing down.
McMurtry Spéirling, which has been the toast of many motor enthusiasts, was born out of the necessity of designing something to suit the narrow roads around his home in Gloucestershire where he was looking for something “nippy and sporty”.
The car has since gained popularity among motor enthusiasts and won the ‘Moment of the Year’ award from Top Gear in 2022.
Although McMurtry avoided publicity, his achievements were widely recognised. He received numerous prestigious awards, including a knighthood for services to design and innovation, as well as international honours from Japan and the USA.
McMurtry’s commitment to mentorship and his contributions to engineering earned him recognition as a Royal Designer for Industry, along with fellowships with the Royal Society and other distinguished institutions.
McMurty founded the eponymous car brand when he was in 70s – photo: McMurtry Automatives
Born in Dublin in 1940, McMurtry came to the UK when he was just 18-years-old. After being in the orbit of Bristol’s engineering scene for over 60 years, McMurthy has been listed in the Sunday Times Rich List 2024 with a networth of £1.2bn.
David McMurtry’s passing marks the end of a glorious chapter for Renishaw and the broader manufacturing community.
Main photo: Renishaw
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