Mr Cridland has been a mainstay at Babcock in Australia and the United Kingdom since his employment began in 2015.

“I’m delighted to be taking up the role at such an exciting time for the industry. Now more than ever, what we do matters,” he said.

“I look forward to driving further success in the region (from the Group’s regional head office in Adelaide, South Australia) as we continue to support our customers and build a safe and secure world, together.”

Mr Cridland, a Chartered Accountant and University of Adelaide Bachelor of Commerce alumna, has previously been employed with Royal Dutch Shell, the Australian Submarine Corporation and Greencap, formerly owned by Wesfarmers.

Babcock chief executive officer David Lockwood said Mr Cridland was selected as chief executive officer from an extensive internal and external recruitment process, and a similar search is underway to find his replacement as chief financial officer.

“Andrew’s extensive leadership qualities and in-depth knowledge of our business will ensure we continue to deliver the critical services which help keep our customers and communities safe in a period of increasing regional tensions,” he said.