Meet The Team
Leadership Team
Operations Team
As founder and Managing Director, Seamus is a dynamic leader who inspires passion and innovation in the Castle Group team and earns the trust of industry partners and clients. Under his stewardship, Castle Group has flourished, expanding to over 350 skilled professionals with an annual turnover exceeding €55M. Starting as a skilled tradesman, Seamus’s entrepreneurial spirit recognised the emergence of a new era of construction – one that embraced efficiency, sustainability, and modular methodologies. He founded the Castle Group in 1999 and continues to pioneer excellence, expand operations, and ensure that Castle’s core values of trust, integrity, and partnership remain central drivers for delivering top-quality products and services.
Declan Derrane
Director
dderrane@castlegroup.ie
dderrane@castlegroup.ie
Declan brings over two decades of construction industry expertise. Holding a Diploma in Building Management and a Degree in Quantity Surveying, he is a Chartered Quantity Surveyor and a member of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors and the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland. Since joining Castle Group in 2014, Declan has led award-winning projects in Ireland and the UK, emphasising professionalism, collaboration, and continuous development. Outside of work, he coaches athletics and camogie, reflecting his passion for nurturing talent.
Pat Mc Donagh
Director
pmcdonagh@castlegroup.ie
pmcdonagh@castlegroup.ie
Pat brings a wealth of seasoned expertise to the team. With a diploma in Construction Management, a Degree in Quantity Surveying, and a Master’s in Project Management from Salford University, his educational background underscores his commitment to excellence. Since joining Castle Group in 2011, Pat has been instrumental in expanding the QS team and driving the company’s growth. Known for his leadership, professionalism, and collaborative spirit, Pat is dedicated to integrating innovative practices and industry trends. Outside work, he enjoys playing the guitar, sketching, and reading.
Kevin Whiriskey
Head of Castle Fit-Out Solutions
kwhiriskey@castlegroup.ie
kwhiriskey@castlegroup.ie
Kevin’s construction career, marked by a diploma in civil engineering, and a degree in structural engineering, began in Dublin on wastewater contracts before advancing to high-rise concrete framing in London. Returning to Ireland, he worked on diverse projects, including pharmaceuticals and with the Dublin Airport Authority. Since joining Castle Group in 2012, Kevin’s leadership and ‘can-do’ attitude have driven the company’s growth. Outside of work, Kevin enjoys family time and exercise, providing balance to his professional life.
Eoin Waldron
Head of Castle Modular
ewaldron@castlegroup.ie
ewaldron@castlegroup.ie
Eoin, with an honours degree in Engineering from NUIG, started his career with a Tier 1 contractor in Ireland before moving to the UAE, leading large-scale projects. He joined Castle Group in 2020, drawn by its entrepreneurial spirit. As leader of the modular business, Eoin has been key to its success, fostering a strong team and driving exemplary innovation. Outside of work, he enjoys sailing, cycling, and outdoor activities, embodying Theodore Roosevelt’s belief: “Believe you can and you’re halfway there!
Niall Hardiman
Operations Manager
nhardiman@castlegroup.ie
nhardiman@castlegroup.ie
With over 30 years of experience, Niall, a NUIG Galway Engineering graduate, joined Castle Group in 2017. He oversees Operations at the Modular Division, bringing a wealth of expertise from delivering multimillion-euro projects across various sectors, including education, hospitality, and healthcare. Niall is actively involved in Castle Group’s sporting activities and the Castle Well Health and Wellbeing program, participating in charity cycles, duathlons, and runs. His commitment to excellence, teamwork, and innovation drives the success of Castle Group’s modular operations.
Aoife Lawlor
Head of Internal Communications, Culture & Employee Engagement
alawlor@castlegroup.ie
alawlor@castlegroup.ie
As Head of Internal Communications at Castle Group, Aoife brings over 20 years of global HR experience across industries like construction, technology, healthcare, finance, and pharmaceutical. She has worked with leading brands such as Diageo, VHI, Novartis, and Allianz. Aoife holds a Master of Science in Marketing & Communications and specialises in employee engagement, employer branding, and communications. She is passionate about fostering innovation and enhancing employee experiences.
Mark Moran
Factory Manager, Castle Modular
mmoran@castlegroup.ie
mmoran@castlegroup.ie
Mark is a qualified carpenter joiner with over 20 years of experience. After earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Materials and Architectural Technology in 2009, he ran his own carpentry business focusing on bespoke houses and commercial developments. Joining Castle Group in 2016, Mark now manages the Castle Group Academy, providing NVQ City and Guild qualifications and bespoke training in dry lining detailing. Outside of work, he enjoys cycling and open-water swimming, reflecting his proactive and adventurous spirit.
Niall Bermingham
Project Manager, Castle Modular
nbermingham@castlegroup.ie
nbermingham@castlegroup.ie
Since joining Castle Group in 2019, Niall has driven innovative volumetric construction solutions. With a background in interior design and manufacturing management from his time in the USA, he brings a unique perspective to Castle Modular. Niall’s experience in the high-paced American construction sector has enriched his contributions to the team. Outside of work, he is an active sports enthusiast, participating in hurling and road cycling, embodying Castle Group’s values of team and wellness.
Joe Shanahan
Contracts Manager, Castle Fit-Out Solutions
jshanahan@castlegroup.ie
jshanahan@castlegroup.ie
Joe has over 30 years in construction and is a respected Contracts Manager. Starting at 18, he honed his skills in dry lining and fit-out solutions, eventually leading teams with dedication. Joining Castle Group 14 years ago, Joe thrives in its team-based culture. A personal proudest achievement includes overseeing the Facebook project. Joe’s natural approach focuses on nurturing talent and fostering strong personal connections. Outside of work, he enjoys family time, supporting his daughters in sports, salmon fishing, and golfing.
Stephen McDonnell
Contracts Manager, Castle Fit-Out Solutions
smcdonnell@castlegroup.ie
smcdonnell@castlegroup.ie
Stephen has over three decades of industry experience. His career began in England in 1986 before returning to Ireland, inspired by his family’s construction legacy. Joining Castle Group over 15 years ago, he has been integral to high-profile projects, including the renowned Center Parcs. Stephen’s leadership emphasises mentorship ensuring everyone is equipped to excel in their roles. Outside of work, he enjoys sports, walking, and sightseeing, balancing his professional and personal interests.
Micheál Molloy
Procurement Manager, Castle Fit-Out Solutions
mmolloy@castlegroup.ie
mmolloy@castlegroup.ie
Micheál has extensive construction industry experience, including 12 years at Hilti Ireland. He joined Castle Group over three years ago, drawn by its culture and values. Micheál excels in building a team environment and is proud of his accomplishments, such as participating in the Enterprise Ireland ‘Go Global for Growth’ program. Outside of work, he enjoys family time, playing Gaelic games, staying active, and participating in the Castle Group Cycling Team.
Sinead Vaughan
Procurement Manager, Castle Modular
svaughan@castlegroup.ie
svaughan@castlegroup.ie
With a background in business and a proven track record of success, Sinead brings dynamic leadership and exceptional customer focus to her role as Procurement Manager at Castle Group. Her experience with international brands like GUCCI and AkzoNobel informs her strategic approach. At Castle Group, she thrives in the fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment, overseeing significant projects like rapid build housing. Outside of work, Sinead enjoys art, theatre, history, economics, cooking, and family time.
Jamie Franks
Castle Group, Financial Controller
jfranks@castlegroup.ie
jfranks@castlegroup.ie
Jamie’s finance journey started with a Bachelor of Commerce and Accounting, followed by a Masters in Accounting from NUIG. After completing his chartered accountancy and tax exams at KPMG, he gained valuable experience in Canada before joining Castle Group in Ireland. Enjoying the construction industry and Castle’s vibrant culture, Jamie excels in teamwork, leadership and continuously enhancing Castle Group’s financial processes. Outside work, Jamie enjoys hiking, GAA, and cycling, keeping his focus razor sharp.
Lisa French
Castle Group, Payroll Executive
lfrench@castlegroup.ie
lfrench@castlegroup.ie
Lisa graduated in business from GMIT and joined Castle Group in 2020, bringing over 20 years of retail industry experience. Seeking a new challenge during the pandemic, she transitioned seamlessly into her payroll role at Castle, thanks to the inclusive environment. Lisa values the opportunities for growth and the emphasis on promoting from within. She has enhanced her payroll skills through various courses, thriving in the collaborative culture. Outside work, Lisa enjoys walking and hiking with her Alsatian, Lexie.
Mia Dunne
Environmental Health & Safety Officer, Castle Group
mdunne@castlegroup.ie
mdunne@castlegroup.ie
Armed with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health and Safety from NUIG, Mia’s career began with an internship at Regeneron in Limerick, and she has since thrived in Castle Group’s team-based culture. Mia’s proudest accomplishment is her role in the Eli Lilly project, where she ensured rigorous health and safety standards. Outside of work, she enjoys outdoor sports and wellbeing activities.
Katie Foy
Environmental Health and Safety Officer, Castle Group
kfoy@castlegroup.ie
kfoy@castlegroup.ie
Katie graduated from NUIG in 2023 with a degree in Environmental Health and Safety. With an internship at Aerogen Pharma, she brings industry insights and an academic perspective to her role. Katie values Castle Group’s dynamic team culture, where safety is paramount, and collaboration is key. She fosters a positive work environment by emphasising safety as everyone’s responsibility and promoting teamwork.
