John is a seasoned expert in Ireland’s housing system, particularly in social, affordable, and cost rental housing. He recently completed his role as Chair of the government’s Housing Commission, which developed a long-term policy for a sustainable and affordable housing system in Ireland. He also serves on the board of the Land Development Agency and chairs its Investment Sub-committee.

John’s roles and experience include:

• Leading the Housing Commission to establish sustainable and affordable housing policies;
• Extensive experience with the Approved Housing Body (AHB) and housing association sector, having designed the two main funding systems – Payment & Availability (P&A) with CALF for social housing provision, and the Cost Rental Equity Loan (CREL) scheme;
• Developing the core principles of the First Home Affordable Purchase Scheme and the local authority shared equity scheme, significantly enhancing affordable housing options;
• Proven expertise in governance and strategy, with strong qualifications and extensive experience in managing complex housing projects and agencies;
• Over 20 years in senior roles at Dublin City Council, followed by serving as CEO of the Affordable Homes Partnership and the Housing Agency;
• Deep involvement in the development of Ireland’s building control system, addressing significant legislative and regulatory responses to major building defects, including pyritic heave, defective concrete blocks, and multi-story building regulations.

Relevant projects John has undertaken include:

• Development of affordable housing policy and cost rental housing in Ireland;
• Integration of three housing agencies into the government’s Housing Agency, enhancing housing policy and delivery;
• Leading major regeneration projects, such as the Fatima Mansions redevelopment;
• An instrumental role in shaping Ireland’s building control system, handling legislative responses to various building defects over the past 35 years.

Education and professional qualifications:

• MEngSc in Structural Engineering, University College Dublin;
• Diploma in Project Management, Institute of Project Management;
• Diploma in Company Direction, Institute of Directors;
• Fellow of the Institution of Engineers of Ireland (FIEI);
• Chartered and Honorary Member of the Chartered Institute of Housing.