Downer chairman Mike Harding said the appointment was in line with the company’s policy of continued board renewal.

"Philip has over 30 years’ experience in infrastructure, construction, development and investment and his broad range of skills will strengthen the Downer board," Harding said.

"I said at our annual general meeting two weeks ago that we were well advanced in a process that will result in the appointment of three new non-executive directors.

“Philip is the first of these appointments and I look forward to making further announcements in the near future."

The appointment takes the number of board members to seven.