Better
planet
now
In essence, this is the genesis of WElink:
our story, our conviction, and our unwavering purpose.
WE see our
Planet in crisis.
WE believe in the
Power of the collective.
WE make it our business to
Challenge the status quo & build a better planet now.
Enabling synergies. Delivering impact.
Our mission is to deliver positive impact by bringing together bright people, green projects, strong partners and enabling potential for a better planet now.
At WElink, we don't just see global challenges; we see boundless opportunities for innovation. Our objective is clear: to transform our collective challenges into catalysts for change through the power of engineering, entrepreneurship and execution.
Every challenge is a canvas of possibilities. When I spot a challenge, my first thought is,
'What can WE do about it?'
We hold the power to embrace challenges, infuse them with life, and sculpt them into the very catalysts propelling our growth, expanding our awareness, and nurturing our hunger for learning something new every day.
My father's wisdom, viewing challenges as intriguing puzzles, has been my guiding North Star, and has equipped me to see the possible learnings and potential to grow in any problem.
With unwavering enthusiasm, I eagerly embrace the prospect of collaborating with diverse minds, enabling potential, and together, scaling WElink not only to new heights but also serving as catalyst for a sustainable and better future.
Barry O’Neill
CEO & Founder, WElink Group
When you see things through a positive lens, you unlock the ability to experiment, collaborate, build, and make strides.
Our Vision
A world where sustainability is no longer a differentiator.
Our Values
We don’t just dream. We make it happen
Our people are wired for action and driven by a relentless pursuit of results. We thrive on challenges, turning aspirations into achievements, and goals into realities.
Willpower
We believe it's our superpower and what got us here.
Entrepreneurial
Mindset
We see possibilities in every challenge.
Lead By
Action
We create positive influence by example not opinions.
Impactful
Sustainable Scaling
We innovate with sustainability in mind and scale as a goal.
Nurture
Relationships
We are partnership-driven and believe in the power of WE.
Keep
It Real
We prioritize sustainable growth over status &valuations.
If our values strike a chord with you and you've got that burning desire to accelerate your personal growth while contributing to our collective success, then it's time to explore the possibilities of working with us.
Historical milestones
We never forget
our beginnings as we build the future.
2007
Founded in Dublin, Ireland, pioneering product sourcing and supply chains in Asia.
2010
Partnered with CTIEC, elevating investments to new heights.
2013
Enabled WElink Energy grow, delivering 750MW solar PV assets worldwide.
2016
Domineered Iberian and Italian markets, leading in solar PV with strategic investments.
2018
Sold 46 MW Ourike project to Allianz and ventured into innovative, energy-efficient housing with WElink Homes. Strengthened management and operational team, expanded reach.
2021
Energised 219MW Solara4 project, unleashed Southern European pipeline
2022
Ventured into Africa with top-tier partners and a stellar African-European team.
2023
Broke ground in Battery Energy Storage Systems, pioneering energy transition with WElink BESS.
The driving force behind our sustainable business growth
Enablers
Credibility, a wealth of knowledge and influence - our high EQ captains. They’ve excelled in C-suite roles, leveraging their industry expertise to amplify WElink’s growth and guide our scaling efforts.
Barry O’Neill
CEO, WElink Group
Meet Barry, the dynamic founder and CEO of WElink Group, enabling sustainable businesses to scale since 2007. What began as a spark has grown into a global business which has a strong culture of entrepreneurship and collaboration.
Before his WElink journey, Barry spent 13 years at DCC plc, where he was a Managing Director and board member in DCC’s Healthcare Division. There, he orchestrated operations and business development across Europe and Asia. Prior to this, he honed his craft at Price Waterhouse Coopers in Corporate Finance. Barry is a Chartered Accountant and a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Commerce and a Master's in Business, both from University College Dublin, Ireland.
Barry embodies visionary leadership, turning dreams into action. His energy and positivity is infectious and keeps the team motivated to accomplish further.
Ado Carton
COO, WElink Group
Meet Ado, a coach-style leader joined WElink as COO in 2023 bringing with him over three decades of experience driving success in high-growth environments.
He spent an impressive 27 years with Kerry Group plc and later joined Scandic Standard plc, for a dynamic three-year stint. At Kerry Group, Ado led diverse business units across various sectors and global territories, orchestrating remarkable transformations. During his tenure, Kerry Group's market capitalisation surged from under €500 million to an astounding €15 billion. Simultaneously, under Ado's astute leadership, the Foods Division saw income growth from €200 million to a formidable €1.3 billion.
Ado is an exceptional leader, applying his organisational skills and frameworks to keep the team focused on executing high-priority tasks for maximum impact.
David Ritchie
CEO, WElink Homes
Meet David, the results-driven leader of WElink Homes since October 2017, with a strong focus on process, quality, and delivery. He demonstrates exceptional senior executive expertise in the UK housing sector, leaving an indelible mark.
With a stellar career spanning 19 years at Bovis Homes Group plc, serving as Group FC, CFO, MD, and CEO for a decade. Under his leadership, the market cap rose from £350 million to £1.35 billion in 2016. He executed a bold land investment strategy, acquiring 27,000 plots and doubling the consented land bank from 12,000 to 25,000 plots. David gained expertise during eight years at KPMG and holds a BA in economics and accounting with FCA qualifications.
David is the strategic linchpin who propels WElink towards innovative horizons.
John Murphy
CEO, WElink Energy
Meet John, the high EQ thought leader at WElink who rejoined us on March 1, 2017, and now serves as the CEO of WElink Energy.
John embodies financial finesse, with seven years at Det Norske Veritas Germanischer Lloyd (DNV GL) Group, where he held the CFO mantle for GL and later for DNV GL Oil & Gas after the DNV and GL merger in 2013. He's steered corporate destinies at DNV GL, DCC plc, Georgia Pacific Inc, GSK plc, KPMG, and Shell Group plc. John isn't just a financial expert — he’s a Fellow of the Chartered Association of Certified Accountants, has an Executive MBA from INSEAD, an MBA from Bradford University Management School, and a BSc in Psychology and Management from Imperial College, London.
Under John's captainship, WElink Energy sails a course of innovation, excellence, and a culture deeply rooted in high emotional intelligence.
Rokshana Baryole
Special advisor to CEO
Meet Roxana, a dedicated supporter of WElink Energy for over two decades, wielding extensive expertise in renewables. With a focus on wind, solar, and waste management, she pioneers alternative energy solutions for emerging markets, notably in Mining and C&I sectors.
Roxana's leadership roles in Canadian renewables and gold mining in Africa and the Middle East inform her innovative approach, integrating blockchain technology into Fintech financing for renewables.
Holding a B.Sc Honours from the University of Toronto, Roxana influences mining and sustainability through board roles and international non-profits supporting women and children globally.
Enablers
Credibility, a wealth of knowledge and influence - our high EQ captains. They’ve excelled in C-suite roles, leveraging their industry expertise to amplify WElink’s growth and guide our scaling efforts.
Engineers
Tech-savvy, high-IQ problemsolvers - our project superheroes.They decipher complexity, driveinnovation, and bring precision toWElink's projects and help usdeliver what we promise.
Breandan MacAmhlaoibh
CTO, WElink Energy
Meet Breandan, the technical virtuoso who joined WElink Group back in 2008. Today, he stands as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for WElink Energy, shaping our innovative path forward.
He brings 12 years of experience in product engineering, technical due diligence, and procurement across Asia. His journey commenced by collaborating with Taiwanese companies, where he fine-tuned product enhancements to develop overseas key accounts. Later, he established the Asian operation for a segment of DCC Healthcare, overseeing the birth of over 200 new products, from design to manufacture. He has a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering from University College Dublin, Ireland.
His fluency in Mandarin makes him a star negotiator for navigating contracts with Chinese suppliers and has a talent for turning ideas into tangible success through technology.
Andrew Turnball
Head of Manufacturing, WElink Homes, UK
Meet Andrew, our UK Head of Manufacturing at WElink Homes since 2018. He brings over 22 years of invaluable experience in the manufacturing and construction industry. Formerly the CEO of Icarus LSF, he pioneered innovative off-site solutions and served as the Managing Director at C3S, delivering tailored modular buildings for diverse applications.
Armed with an MSc in Engineering Project Management and a BEng in Management, Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering from the University of Leeds, Andrew also holds a first-class BEng in Manufacturing Engineering from Leeds Beckett University.
His passion for learning led him to attain a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from Loughborough University.
Beyond his mission to drive innovation at WElink Homes, he finds joy in fly fishing, rock climbing, and indulging his culinary skills.
Expert Innovators
Tech-savvy, high-IQ problemsolvers - our project superheroes.They decipher complexity, driveinnovation, and bring precision toWElink's projects and help usdeliver what we promise.
Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurial spirits, risk-takers, and visionaries-our growth catalysts. They've founded and expanded their ventures, embrace failure, and possess a keen eye for unseen opportunities - WElink's future
Angelo Prete
General Manager, Italy
Meet Angelo, the bright business mind who joined WElink in 2013 and is the General Manager of WElink Italy. His role is akin to an Italian symphony conductor, harmonizing all facets of PV plant project development and construction.
With 15 years of global energy sector experience, predominantly in renewables, Angelo has navigated diverse roles, from startup phases to long-term investment management, demonstrating his finesse in the industry and expertise in economic assessments, legal contracts, and technical intricacies, whether it's acquisition or sale. His portfolio encompasses managerial roles in multinational European firms, fostering robust ties with Chinese counterparts. He has a Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering and an MBA.
Angelo drives WElink's Italian operations to greater heights with unmatched local expertise.
Paul Larkin
General Manager, Africa
Meet Paul, the fearless entrepreneur who embarked on his WElink adventure as the International Business Development Director in September 2016. He's evaluated and explored opportunities for WElink in the US and South America, and now leading the African charge as General Manager.
With vast experience in large-scale property development across emerging markets, he managed a 6 million sq. ft. project pipeline in India for an Indian-European joint venture and co-founded Dragoman Development Romania specialising in residential and renewable projects. Paul began as a design engineer at Intel Communications and PNC-Sierra, Ireland. He holds a first-class honors degree in Electrical Engineering from University College Cork and earned an executive MBA from the London School of Economics with distinction.
Paul's "think global, act local" mindset paves the path for WElink businesses to transcend European borders.
Hugo Paz
General Manager, Iberia
Meet Hugo, a key member of WElink since October 2017, currently leading our Iberia division with an impressive 500 MW pipeline under his watchful eye.
With 17 years of experience as a Project Manager with a Spanish EPC contractor, Hugo has successfully delivered over 25 projects in Natural Gas and Energy Renewables across Portugal, Spain, Chile, and Qatar. Hugo is on the brink of completing an Executive MBA from Coimbra University, showcasing his commitment to staying at the forefront of his field.
As a member of the Portuguese Engineering Association, he excels at networking and building strong relationships with key market stakeholders in Iberia.
Experienced
executives
Global industry veterans with over 15 years ofcorporate insight- our business advocates.They bring in structure, processes, and bestpractices to WElink to make sure banks,investors and partners feel assured and secureabout their investment.
Dr Ruprecht
von Heusinger
Head of Structured Finance, WElink Group
Meet Ruprecht, the newest addition to the WElink team in 2023. With a stellar track record spanning 25 years, he takes the helm of structured and project finance opportunities, steering us toward financial success.
Ruprecht's journey is a testament to his financial prowess. He's navigated various finance and project finance roles, leaving his mark at institutions like DEPFA bank plc and Kommunalkredit Austria AG. His financial acumen is matched by his formal training as an economist and his prestigious CFA charter.
Ruprecht is not just shaping the financial future of WElink; he's sculpting a legacy of financial excellence that will stand the test of time.
Shane Lyons
Head of Strategy Development, WElink Group
Meet Shane, the seasoned executive who joined WElink in March 2017 and is now Head of Strategy Development, bringing substantial corporate credibility.
With 25 years at PwC Corporate Finance in Dublin, Shane was a pivotal figure in Irish market M&A and infrastructure transactions. During his tenure, Shane provided strategic guidance to various privately owned businesses across sectors such as healthcare, recruitment, construction, building materials, industrial products, and transport. His expertise extended into Project Finance and PPP projects, enhancing PwC's Irish profile. A Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland, Shane holds a Bachelor's degree in Commerce and a Masters in Accounting from University College Dublin.
Shane Lyons excels in risk management, strategically evaluating possibilities to see if they result in profitable ventures.
Adam Norton
Head of Lands, UK
Meet Adam, our UK Head of Land at WElink Homes since 2018. His responsibility is to source development land and establish joint ventures with partners who share our vision to deliver truly innovative, off-site manufactured homes in the UK.
With an impressive track record as Land Director at industry giants like Willmott Dixon, St Modwen, Charles Church, and Taylor Wimpey Adam's visionary leadership fuels our innovation. He holds a BSc (Hons) in Residential Development.
When not transforming the housing landscape, he conquers the famous cycling routes of the Alps each summer.
Gerard Finn
Head of Finance, WElink Group
Meet Gerard, our financial expert who assumed the role of overseeing the group finance function at WElink in 2017.
Gerard has over a decade of experience in senior roles in Pharma, Tech, and Property sectors. As a Chartered Accountant, he brings method and order to WElink's expanding ventures, ensuring fiscal health and stability.
With Gerard at the lead, WElink's financial compass is set squarely on success.
Joss Ealey
General Counsel, WElink Energy
Meet Joss, our legal lead since April 2021, entrusted with overseeing all in-house legal matters.
He brings a wealth of experience from renowned firms, including Pinsent Masons and Latham and Watkins. Joss specializes in the intricate web of financing, development, and acquisition within the energy and infrastructure sectors across the UK and Europe.
With a track record of mastering legal intricacies, he fortifies WElink's expertise in these dynamic industries.
Ann Keenan
Head of Human Resources, WElink Group
Meet Ann, the people enthusiast who joined WElink in 2016 as Head of Human Resources.
Ann lead the people powerhouse at FTSE 100 giant DCC plc, serving as the Head of Group Human Resources for an impressive 16 years. At DCC, employment skyrocketed from 2,900 to 10,500, and revenues surged from £1.03 billion to £10.88 billion under her guidance, across 15 countries. Prior to this, Ann spent an incredible 23 years at IBM, in various senior management roles. Beyond her illustrious career, Ann holds a B.Sc in Pure Mathematics & Computer Science from Queens University, Belfast.
She's more than a seasoned executive; she brings life to the work environment and leads with empathy.
Mike Smith
Head of Finance, WElink Homes, UK
Meet Mike, a seasoned accountant boasting 30+ years of hands-on expertise who joined WElink Homes in 2019. With a strong foundation in financial control and project management, he excels in fundraising, facility negotiation, M&A activities, and system implementation.
Having spent 12 years at BDO, where he earned his qualifications, Mike transitioned into a dynamic commercial role. His diverse career spans property development, investment, contracting, and support services, where he has made a significant impact at the board level.
Mike's knowledge spans residential and commercial property sectors, encompassing housing and apartment schemes, high-end residential units, shopping centers, and student accommodations. His multifaceted experience makes him a valuable asset to WElink Homes.
Thomas Shortall
CIO
Meet Thomas, WElink Group's visionary Chief Information Officer since 2023. With a focus on operational excellence and data security, he leads the Group's global technological expansion.
Formerly CIO at Kerry Foods, Thomas orchestrated ERP implementations and managed €2 billion in M&A transactions. As Chairman of GS1 Ireland, he shaped industry standards.
Thomas champions cutting-edge tech, leveraging his AI expertise and business strategy acumen. His leadership fosters innovation, driving WElink's growth trajectory worldwide.
We're on the lookout for exceptional leaders who can empower, seize opportunities, drive innovation, and bring a wealth of industry expertise.
If you're passionate about leading with intelligence and empathy and helping us realize our vision, we’d love to connect.
Find us here:
WElink Group
Units 33 – 38, Hyde Building,
The Park, Carrickmines,
Dublin, D18 R9P2, Ireland
Quick links
Contact info
Join our newsletter
Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated.
© 2024 WElink. All Rights Reserved.