Former Enterprise Ireland chief joins board of Cairn Homes

Julie Sinnamon has also been part of Government’s climate change advisory council

Former Enterprise Ireland chief executive Julie Sinnamon has been appointed to the board of Irish builder Cairn Homes.

She will join as an independent non-executive director with effect from Friday. Cairn also announces that Andrew Bernhardt intends to step down at the end of the year.

Ms Sinnamon brings “deep experience” in assisting Irish businesses to grow and scale, the group said.

“Ms Sinnamon had a highly successful career at Enterprise Ireland where she held a number of senior roles including the position of CEO from 2013 until her retirement in 2021,” it said.

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Enterprise Ireland is the organisation tasked with supporting the development and growth of Irish enterprises in global markets.

Ms Sinnamon is chairwoman of European Movement Ireland, co-chairwoman of Balance for Better Business, director of PwC Ireland Public Interest Body, The Agricultural Trust, Social Entrepreneurs Ireland and The Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition.

She has also serving as a member of the investment committee of the Irish Strategic Investment Fund and been a member of the Government’s climate change advisory council.

Ms Sinnamon is a business graduate of the University of Ulster, holds a Master’s in International Business from Fordham University, USA, and is a graduate of the Stanford Executive Programme.

Cairn Homes chairman John Reynolds said: “We are delighted to welcome Julie Sinnamon to the Cairn board. Julie brings truly unique and valuable experience to Cairn having played a central role in the growth and development of Irish industry over a 30 year period.

“That depth of experience will broaden the diversity of background of the board as we continue to grow and strengthen our position as a leading participant in Ireland’s housing recovery.

“On behalf of the board, I would also like to thank Andrew Bernhardt for his insight and support over the past six years. Andrew has played a key role in the growth and development of Cairn since its IPO.

“He has been an excellent board colleague and we were fortunate to have his services during our formative years. We wish him well for the future.”

Colin Gleeson

Colin Gleeson

Colin Gleeson is an Irish Times reporter