Executive search company Amrop reopens in Ireland

Company relaunches in Dublin after 15-month sabbatical from Irish market

David Kelly, a managing partner of Amrop: “Over the next couple of years, we’d be targeting a turnover of several million.” Photograph: Conor McCabe
David Kelly, a managing partner of Amrop: “Over the next couple of years, we’d be targeting a turnover of several million.” Photograph: Conor McCabe

Executive search company Amrop has relaunched operations in Ireland with the opening of a new Dublin office, having effectively ended its physical presence here 15 months ago.

The group with 76 offices across 49 countries will initially employ a team of five staff in the Republic, having introduced a new management team.

The new office will comprise partners, including managing partner David Kelly, in addition to a research element.

Speaking to The Irish Times, Mr Kelly said the company wants to be either the number one or two player in whatever market they're operating in. "Over the next couple of years, we'd be targeting a turnover of several million," he said.

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The Irish arm of the business will focus primarily on executive search but will also offer business advisory services and succession planning advice.

“We understand the needs of senior business leaders, because we’ve been there ourselves,” Mr Kelly said. While he wouldn’t disclose client names, Mr Kelly noted the company has worked with Ireland’s major banks and all publicly listed companies with operations worldwide.

‘Bargaining power’

Commenting on the nature of the Irish market, Mr Kelly said it’s stable and he expects the size of the pie to increase “slowly but surely” over the next number of years.

“With the unemployment rate going lower and lower, there’s more bargaining power,” he added.

"Amrop has held a prime position in Ireland for many years, with a recognised brand that stands for quality and professionalism," said José Leyún, chief executive of the Amrop Partnership. "David and his ambitious team are building the kind of forward-looking business that will drive our future success in this market, and reinforce Amrop's vanguard position in Europe. "

The business ended its physical presence in Ireland 15 months ago when its staff moved to another company. It subsequently ran the Irish operations from London before deciding to re-establish a physical presence in the Republic.

Peter Hamilton

Peter Hamilton

Peter Hamilton is a contributor to The Irish Times specialising in business