Equity Gap, the syndicate of Scottish business investors headed by chairman Jock Millican, holds a 16% share in Vert following its original investment in the firm in 2016.

Mr Williamson is currently chairman of Glasgow-based sales and marketing company 4icg, which he joined earlier this year after the successful sale of another venture – R&D tax credit specialist Jumpstart – to French technology firm Visiativ.

He began his career with Weir Pumps and subsequently secured his first managing director’s position at 26 years old. He later went on to establish himself as an investor and, in May 2016, earned the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to entrepreneurship from WeDO Scotland.

Established in 2013, Vert Rotors has developed a new type of compressor technology which is smaller and quieter than traditional twin-screw devices, while also capable of continuous running.

Mr Williamson said: “It is a clever piece of patented engineering that is disrupting the traditional compressor market which is really interesting. It takes me back to my days when I was at Weir Pumps, and the smell of coolant was in my nostrils often.”

His appointment coincides with the arrival of new chief executive Phil Harris, who has extensive experience in the manufacturing industry.

Mr Harris said: “It’s fantastic to have Brian on board at this exciting time for Vert Rotors. His experience will provide invaluable guidance as this company pursues its mission to bring this incredible technology to life.”