A NEW chief executive has been appointed by the Oxley Group.

Garry North will replace Martin Blakstad at the Ulverston firm, which designs and manufactures LED lighting, night vision and electronic components for major companies across the world including Boeing and Airbus.

Mr North is a mechanical engineer and has over 40 years of experience in the manufacturing industry, particularly in the aerospace and defence sector.

He has worked in the USA, Europe and the Middle and Far East and the board said: “He will further enhance Oxley’s position as a leading UK export champion.

Mr North said: “Oxley Group is a fantastic business. With its deep pool of talent, strong customer base, innovative products and solutions and robust balance sheet, I am really excited about having the opportunity to work with the team and lead the group into the next stage of its strategic development.”

Oxley chairman Peter Bedwin added: “Garry brings with him a wealth of experience in managing and improving companies, which will be of major benefit as we continue to grow and improve Oxley Group’s performance, we very much welcome him as part of the team.”

Mr Blakstad announced last month that he would be stepping down in January after five years in charge.

When took over at the Ulverston business in 2013, it was in difficulties.

Today, it is forecasting a good profit for this year and has a strong order book.

During his tenure, the company has won many prestigious contracts and awards, including the design and supply of lighting to the South Korean KF-X fighter programme, Boeing CH-47 Chinook, Sikorsky rotary platforms, the Boeing KC-46 tanker and the SAAB Gripen E as well as multiple armoured vehicle platforms. Earlier this year, it was announced the firm secured a place on Sharing in Growth (SiG), the Government-backed aerospace productivity programme.