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The Construction Industry Federation is pleased to announce Andrew Brownlee as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 1st October 2025.
Andrew will succeed Hubert Fitzpatrick, current Director General, who will retire on 30th September 2025, following over two decades of dedicated service to the Federation.
Stephen McCarthy, President of the Construction Industry Federation, has thanked Hubert Fitzpatrick on his retirement.
“On behalf of the federation and its members, I would like to thank Hubert for his committed service to the Construction Industry Federation over twenty-two years. He has played a key leadership role in navigating the industry through major challenges, including the pandemic shutdowns and financial downturn, while advancing critical policy approaches to support housing and infrastructure delivery.
“He has consistently demonstrated great belief in the industry and a deep understanding of our members’ needs, using his insight and experience to find solutions and build opportunities. The Executive Body appreciates Hubert’s dedication to the role of Director General and wishes him the best for his retirement.”
Welcoming Andrew to the Federation, Stephen McCarthy said: “We are pleased to appoint Andrew to the role of CEO. Andrew brings exceptional leadership experience in business development and construction industry strategy, particularly around skills and apprenticeships through his work as CEO of SOLAS.”
Andrew has been CEO at SOLAS, the state agency responsible for further education, construction skills and apprenticeship, since September 2019, having previously served as Executive Director for Strategy and Knowledge.
He joined SOLAS from the Higher Education Authority, where he was Head of System Funding from 2015 to 2019. Prior to that, Andrew had a long and distinguished career in management consulting, working for Fitzpatrick Associates, PA Consulting and PwC. Andrew has a Masters in Economics and Accounting from the University of Edinburgh.
Stephen McCarthy added: “As the CIF marks its 90th anniversary this year, we reflect on our legacy, while looking ahead to the future of our industry. We welcome Andrew on board and wish him every success as he leads the Federation into its next chapter on behalf of our members.”
Andrew Brownlee said: “I am really excited to be joining the Construction Industry Federation at this critical time for the construction industry. Housing and infrastructure are pivotal to Ireland’s next phase of social and economic transformation, and I will be working intensively on behalf of the industry to ensure that the investment and supports are in place to drive growth and success.
“I am proud to become CEO of such an important and longstanding organisation and look forward to engaging with members to understand their needs and ensure that the CIF delivers for them.”