List of Green Business/Sustainability Mentors

Aideen Bodkin is an entrepreneur and business mentor specialising in design & craft, design thinking, product development and sustainability. Having run two successful business in fashion design and bespoke uniforms for a European Airline, Aideen is the founder of a business developing a software solution to help reduce online garment returns. Aideen specialises in business structure, strategic planning for business growth and sustainable product and business development.  Her experience includes business development, exporting, preparation for trade shows, and creating and growing brand identity.  Aideen is passionate about design innovation and heritage crafts, and she advocates for sustainability and slow fashion

Aisling Connaughton is a co-founder of Cyd Connects, a women-led sustainability consultancy helping businesses become a force for good.  Cyd Connects is a certified B Corp, participant of the UN Global Compact and specialises in accelerating the Sustainable Development Goals via sustainability roadmaps that make navigating the journey fun and inspiring.   Now is the time for every business to become a force for good.  Through Cyd Connects, Aisling turns social and environmental responsibility into competitive business advantage.  As a TEDx speaker and guest lecturer at London Business School, Goldsmiths University and EADA Barcelona, Aisling’s skill is in taking what can seem like a dry and overwhelming subject like sustainability, and making it simple, innovative and fun.  Aisling’s 18-year global career in PR spans sustainability, marketing, and communications.  She has worked for Huawei Technologies holding posts in Shenzhen and San Francisco.  Aisling began her career in the beauty industry, working for L’Oreal, Aveda and Clarins before taking the Global Head of PR role with leading sustainable British brand Liz Earle Beauty Co.  Aisling is a proud member of the University of Cambridge Wo+Men Leadership Centre. She has a Masters in Social Entrepreneurship from Goldsmiths University of London and received a scholarship to the Cambridge Judge Business School Rising Women Leaders Programme.  In her role as a certified B Leader, Aisling is working to raise awareness of how the B Corp framework can act as a catalyst for better business and accelerate the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Aisling Hurley has over 10 years experience of creative leadership, with a comprehensive understanding of global market dynamics (co-founder teamwoodcraft.com). Has led creative projects and teams for international brands such as Laurence Lewellyn Bowen, British Airways, HSS, Menarini, Covalen. Pioneer in fusing AI with creative processes, enhancing innovation and efficiency. She has designed digital marketing campaigns that resonate across diverse cultures and is experienced in fostering cohesive team development through the strategic use of technology and creative methodologies.  In her role as a design strategist, Aisling has developed numerous industry-focused initiatives that drive growth and innovation across a broad spectrum of companies, from start-ups to multinationals. Her expertise includes shaping strategic direction for the implementation of business, product, and service innovations for industry partners. She lectures in various universities including SETUs MBA where she leads programmes that apply strategic design methodologies and her designer’s framework to stimulate innovation and creative problem-solving. She is also the host of The SME Community Podcast.  Key Skills - Digital Marketing Science, National & International Markets, Innovation & Creativity, Business Strategy, Emerging Tech Trends including  AI, AR, XR, Corporate Governance.

Derek Hannick has over 70 Green for Business assignments delivered across a variety of business sectors for Local Enterprise Offices throughout Ireland.  He is SEAI Partnership Support Manager for Public Bodies to assist their energy management and decarbonisation goals.  He is also cost and sustainability project manager in private industry since 2006 prior to setting up Lean Green Services in 2015.

JJ O’Hara, Future Cast. Future Cast is a centre for Innovation, Education, and Research & Development, dedicated to advancing the Construction, Manufacturing, and Quarrying industries. They primary focus is on working closely with companies within these sectors and supporting their entire manufacturing supply chains and driving forward the adoption of advanced technologies and optimised processes to enhance productivity, sustainability, and competitiveness

As part of our mission, Future Cast is committed to:

1. Researching and sharing the latest developments in Industry 4.0 technologies with our member companies
2. Actively exploring innovations such as digitalisation, automation, data-driven decision-making, and smart technology integration
3. Providing valuable insights and practical solutions that address real-world industry challenges
4. Supporting companies in embracing advancements that strengthen and prepare the industrial sector for the future

We’ll meet with your company directly at your quarry, construction site, or manufacturing facility to understand and develop your innovation ideas first-hand. Our team collaborates closely with academic partners, funding agencies, and the Future Cast technology team to craft a tailored solution and a clear, actionable roadmap for your project’s success. Education is the key to our success in an ever-changing global world. As industries continue to evolve, companies must prioritise up-skilling their teams to stay competitive under the advancements of Industry 4.0. Future Cast offers a range of courses designed to equip your staff with cutting-edge skills in areas such as robotics and cobotics, artificial intelligence, smart data, IoT development, software engineering, virtual and augmented reality, 3D industry printing, and the workplace of the future.  Future Cast is supported by a team of academics and industry experts dedicated to advancing the future of construction methods in Ireland and beyond. By leveraging our strong partnerships with industry leaders and academic institutions, we are constantly working to develop innovative techniques and technologies that address today’s challenges and prepare for tomorrow’s needs.

Dr. John Collier and Foodovate Consulting is a Food-Innovation consultancy helping companies design and develop new products for the retail/food service markets. This is built on over 20-years’ experience in industry. We work in Innovation and Innovation Capability, Market Intelligence, Strategy & Business Models, Export Plans & Models, Nutrition & Health Claims, New Product Development, Digital Marketing for Food and Training. We are experts in Design Thinking and innovation models to help you bring your ideas to life. We also work with companies to secure funding for start up formation, feasibility, and growth. John has owned and managed several food companies over the past 20 years and has worked in every aspect of the industry. He has direct experience with beverages, prepared meals, horticultural products, pharmaceuticals, meat products, dairy products, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, savoury, and sweet snacks.

Liam O'Connor (MBS, BBS, BA, H.Dip.) is a highly experienced professional with a history of success in diverse management systems. He has more than 30 years of experience in highly regulated industries in senior management decision-making positions. His speciality is driving systematic and culture change.  A specialist in such fields as Quality, Lean Enterprise Excellence, Safety, ESG, and Compliance, Liam is the founder of Organisational Excellence Ireland. He works with companies across the world to implement mechanisms to identify and eliminate non-value-add activities in processes, integrate management systems, achieve certification, and develop best practices in the most holistic manner possible.  Liam lives in central Co. Wexford with his wife Samantha, three cats and a flock of chickens.

Maeve Finch, founder of Total Focus, has been mentoring businesses since 2004. With extensive experience in both private and public sectors, Maeve has operated at both strategic and operational levels, providing expert guidance to business leaders, as well as pre-start-up and start-up enterprises.  Maeve’s approach is grounded in practicality and bolstered by advanced business development expertise, a deep understanding of Ireland’s current trading climate, and academic achievements up to master’s level. She actively engages in continuous professional development, including training in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence.  Passionate about supporting entrepreneurs, Maeve specialises in working closely with pre-start-up and start-up businesses, particularly within service industries. Her services include one-to-one mentoring, facilitating business advice clinics, and leading "Start Your Own Business" courses in collaboration with several Local Enterprise Offices.

Michael O’Gorman MBA.  Michael is a dynamic business mentor and advisor with 30+ years of leadership across roles such as Board Director, Head of Strategy, Director of Development and Growth, Business School Lecturer and Entrepreneur. His rich blend of experience, capability, and continuous learning positions him as a trusted guide for micro-enterprises, SMEs, and Innovation-Driven Enterprises (IDEs) on a pathway of development, discovery, and growth.  Armed with postgraduate qualifications in Business, Education, Enterprise Development, and Innovation, Michael is also a certified Advanced Practitioner in Value Management and accredited by MIT’s Entrepreneurship Development Programme. Through his company, Pathway Business Solutions, he delivers strategic guidance and operational solutions tailored to each business’s unique needs and stage of development.  Michael’s holistic approach bridges the agility of small enterprises with the strategic depth of corporates, unlocking potential and fostering sustainable growth. His mentorship drives clarity, adaptability, and measurable success at every stage of business evolution.

Muireann Fitzmaurice is a seasoned marketing consultant and coach, bringing over 20 years of expertise in helping businesses achieve growth through effective branding and marketing strategies. As the founder of MarketingCoach.ie, she specialises in guiding SMEs to build strong, marketable brands and implement strategies that drive tangible results.  Muireann’s approach is practical and results-oriented, offering tailored mentoring to businesses at all stages of development. Her experience spans various sectors, including tourism, retail, and professional services, making her advice highly adaptable and insightful.  In addition to her extensive marketing expertise, Muireann is a certified leadership coach, supporting business owners and teams to maximise their potential. She is passionate about empowering entrepreneurs with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in competitive markets.  A recognised thought leader, Muireann has also spoken at conferences like Digital West, where she delivered impactful talks on AI and marketing innovations for SMEs. She recently launched a Green Sustainability online programme for SMEs. She is passionate about helping people, organisations and planet to flourish

Niall McManus.  Niall is the founder of EarthRoute Ltd a sustainability consultancy that is dedicated to helping the world move towards a carbon-neutral, circular economy. He is committed to breaking down the barriers to climate change action, adapting to global challenges, and creating success in the opportunities for business enterprises in the energy transition. Niall works with clients in Life Science, Hospitality, Renewable Energy, Manufacturing, Recreation, and Natural Resources in Ireland and abroad.

Patrick Moran - Genos Carbon is a multidisciplinary consultancy practice which specialises in Environmental and Sustainable advisory. We offer a full suite of services including:

• Carbon Accounting (ISO14064)
• ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) compliance and strategy
• CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive) compliance, strategy, reporting (preparation and audit). Including advisory to SMEs under the Voluntary SME (VSME) framework.
• B-Corp reporting and preparation.
• GRI (Global Reporting Initiative) reporting and preparation
• CDP (Carbon Disclosure Project) reporting and preparation
• Biodiversity advisory
• Sustainable Finance advisory
• Renewable Energy surveys and installations
• SEAI Energy Audits
• Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) advisory and reporting
• Green Procurement and Green Supply Chain Management
• Energy Efficiency advisory and implementation
• Sustainable Logistics
• Green Transition and Sustainable Strategy advisory
• Energy Management

Our Team is ready to assist you on your journey to NET ZERO and becoming a more sustainable and profitable business.

Stephen Tripp – Sustainability Consultant, Mentor and Business Leader.  Stephen is a seasoned business consultant, chairman, and mentor with over 25 years of experience in driving business success and sustainability. As a provider on the Enterprise Ireland Green Directory and a number of LEO Green panels, Stephen specialises in delivering practical, actionable sustainability solutions tailored to SMEs.  Having founded and grown two market-leading businesses from start-up to successful international expansion and eventual trade sale, Stephen brings firsthand expertise in operations, product design, supply chain management, and sales & marketing. He was an industry pioneer in outsourcing manufacturing to China and developing international distribution networks.  Stephen excels in sustainability strategy development, offering SMEs innovative solutions that align with global sustainability goals. His core strengths include business development, ESG mentoring, finance, export markets, and strategic planning. Stephen’s hands-on approach and proven track record make him an invaluable guide for businesses seeking sustainable growth and competitive advantage.

Terry Kavanagh is an experienced engineer with over 15 years' expertise in building performance, construction, industrial facilities, energy management, and energy auditing. Most recently he has worked helping businesses to streamline operations, cut energy usage, and reduce costs. With a strong background in energy assessments and sustainability, Terry delivers practical solutions that lower carbon footprints and improve efficiency. he supports organisations in achieving their energy and environmental goals while delivering long-term value.

Tony Dignam - Agile Executives provide a wide range of consultancy and mentoring services to SMEs through our national and international network of consultants covering a broad range of sectors with skills in Finance, Digital, Strategy, HR, General Business, Green and Export Development. 

William Baldwin - Seasoned professional mentor, adviser, consultant, interim manager and non-executive board member supporting businesses (family owned, SME’s, charities and large corporates) seeking to transition (major growth, turnaround or succession) to a new sustainable future.  Expertise includes non-executive board member, organisational strategy and change, ESG, organisation development, business excellence, quality management, food safety, operational efficiency and continual improvement, change and project management, risk management, human resources, learning and development, and environmental, health and safety management. This experience has been gained while working in Ireland, United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Turkey.  Industries supported include manufacturing/industrial/service environments, including personal care, technology, heavy engineering, professional services, food & beverages, chemicals, and animal feed as an employee or consultant/mentor in functions such as quality, health & safety, corporate governance, human resources, organisational change, operational & business excellence, and enterprise risk management.