After 5 months, ask MD who rejected me to refer me to another group?

So I interviewed at a research firm ~5 months ago, and made the final round. It came down to 2 candidates and the MD took the other person over me. He did have the courtesy to call after I was informed of the decision by HR, saying I was a strong candidate and and it was very close and came down to fit and intangibles. I asked for for feedback but he said there was nothing that I could've done differently (Although I thought my interview was average)

Fast forward to 5 months later, I just saw a posting by the firm for a position in another group.

My question is, should I just apply for the new position without contacting the MD or mentioning my past interview (I think I can get an interview based on my experience), or should I send an email to the MD to see if he can help me? If yes, what exactly should I write? (given it's been a while and I was a rejected by him)

PS: HR manager has moved to a new company, so that's not an option.

All comments will be greatly appreciated!

Thanks