Aker Solutions hires David Currie as head of its UK business to help lead the company’s expansion in a key market.

Currie comes from FMC Technologies, where he has since 1985 held various positions, most recently as director of global subsea operations.

A native of Scotland, he will be based in Aberdeen, where Aker Solutions has 2,600 employees working in the maintenance, modifications and operations, drilling technologies and subsea business areas. He will also oversee operations in Stockton-on-Tees and the recently opened office in London, which over time will become a hub for global engineering and subsea services.

“David is an oil industry veteran with a significant track record in developing successful businesses,” said Aker Solutions Executive Chairman Øyvind Eriksen. “His experience in the subsea and energy sectors will be a huge asset in developing Aker Solutions in the UK and beyond.”

Currie studied law in Aberdeen and also has a post-graduate Human Resources’ education. He will report to Eriksen as one of four regional presidents, starting January 20, 2014.

Aker Solutions has since 2011 established regional structures in Brazil, North America, Norway and now the UK to bolster its presence and build stronger relations with key customers.

The company provides products and services for the offshore oil-services industry. It has about 28,000 employees in more than 30 countries. The deepwater and subsea segments are its main market segments.