Supply Chain Sustainability School Ireland, an innovative online platform committed to advancing sustainable practices within supply chains, has introduced its first board of partner representatives. Comprising distinguished professionals with a wealth of experience across the built environment, this newly appointed board will play a crucial role in guiding the school’s mission to promote sustainability throughout Ireland.

Joining the board are:

  • Barry Hennessy, head of specification sales, Saint-Gobain Ireland;
  • Conor O’Regan, chief procurement officer, ESB;
  • David McKenna, sustainability manager, John Paul Construction;
  • Fergus McMahon, director of commercial and procurement, Cairn Homes Plc;
  • Geraldine Fitzpatrick, head of roads and greenways capital programme, Transport Infrastructure Ireland;
  • John Deveraux, supply chain director, John Sisk & Son;
  • Padraig Twomey, contracts & sustainability manager, Gas Networks Ireland;
  • PJ Ryan, head of ESG, Construction Industry Federation (CIF);
  • Qian Li, deputy chief procurement officer, Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail).

The board will drive the School’s mission to promote sustainable practices within the built environment across Ireland by leading initiatives, providing guidance, and encouraging collaboration among industry peers. 

Top row L-R: Barry Hennessy, Conor O’Regan, David McKenna, Fergus McMahon. Bottom row L-R: Geraldine Fitzpatrick, John Deveraux, Padraig Twomey, PJ Ryan, Qian Li.

John Devereaux, supply chain director of John Sisk & Son, said: “I’m honoured to be joining the Board of the Supply Chain Sustainability School. I truly believe that the school will have a massive impact on the built environment in Ireland in terms of education and knowledge sharing across the entire supply chain.

"The challenge we face as an industry is massive and too big for us to tackle it alone, therefore the School will be key in bringing organisations big and small together in achieving a common goal. I’m excited to contribute to this challenge as best I can and ensure the School in Ireland grows from strength to strength.”

Commitment to building sustainable communities

Fergus McMahon, director of commercial and procurement for Cairn Homes plc, saud: "I am delighted to be representing Cairn in joining the board of the Supply Chain Sustainability School. Our commitment to building sustainable communities is at the core of our operations, and the School’s resources are instrumental in advancing our industry partners' knowledge in this critical area, paving the way for a greener future for Ireland."

Launched in Dublin in January 2024, the Supply Chain Sustainability School is a free virtual learning platform designed to upskill those working within, or aspiring to work within, Ireland’s built environment sector, providing them with the knowledge and tools necessary to build resilient and environmentally responsible supply chains. The formation of a dedicated and experienced board represents a significant milestone in the school's development.

“Appointing our first board is a major step forward for the Irish school," said Ian Heptonstall, director of the Supply Chain Sustainability School. "Each board member brings a unique perspective and deep expertise, which will be invaluable as we work together to embed sustainable practices across the built environment. Their collective leadership will be instrumental in driving meaningful change and encouraging collaboration throughout the industry.”

For more information about the Supply Chain Sustainability School Ireland, explore the website here.