The British offshoot of the shipbuilding company Navantia has appointed Donato Martinez as its new Chief Executive Officer.
He succeeds Juan Ignacio de la Cueva, under whose leadership the company took over the insolvent Titanic shipyard Harland & Wolff.
In January, Navantia received the necessary approvals for the integration of the four shipyard sites in Belfast, Appledore, Methil and Arnish. As the Spanish shipbuilding company reports, this has enabled it to secure 1,000 jobs and strengthen the UK’s industrial capacities in the defense, shipping and renewable energy sectors. In future, Harland & Wolff will build naval vessels.
Martinez, previously Navantia’s Chief Technology & Strategy Officer and a member of the Group’s Global Executive Committee, led the acquisition process and was instrumental in the development of Navantia UK’s business plan.
“I am delighted to be taking over the leadership of Navantia UK at this exciting time,” said Martinez. “Our vision for Navantia UK is to build a world-class defense and energy capability that makes a significant contribution to the UK’s industrial base. By transferring Navantia’s global expertise, digital systems and shipbuilding technology, we are creating sustainable, highly skilled jobs and building robust supply chains across the country.”
Navantia UK expands defense and offshore activities
Navantia plans to invest £115 million (€136.5 million), a significant proportion of which will be invested in the Belfast yard. According to the Spanish company, the first integration phase of the shipyard group has been completed – jobs and the management team have been secured. The implementation of the FSS (Fleet Solid Support) program has also begun and will provide three ships for the Royal Navy’s Carrier Strike Group. The aim is to make Navantia UK competitive for British defense programs. The company is also expanding its offshore wind capacity in partnership with Navantia Seanergies to support the UK’s energy security and net zero targets.
“With the acquisition now complete and our initial integration priorities addressed, this is a logical time for a change in leadership,” said Sir Alan Massey, Non-Executive Chair of Navantia UK. “Mr. Martinez’s technical background, expertise in digital transformation and experience in leading Navantia subsidiaries in international markets make him ideal to lead the next phase of Navantia UK’s growth and development. I would like to express my gratitude and that of the entire team to Juan for his passion and commitment.”
