O'Reilly Consulting Group appoints Ronan Berry as managing partner amid SME regulatory pressure

Irish HR consultancy O'Reilly Consulting Group (ORC) has appointed Ronan Berry as managing partner, as SMEs across Ireland contend with mounting pressure from complex employment legislation and persistent talent shortages. The appointment carries direct relevance for HR professionals and business owners navigating an increasingly demanding compliance environment.

As reported by Offaly Live, Berry, best known as presenter of Taking Care of Business on Midlands 103, returns to ORC having previously worked with the firm in 2018, bringing frontline HR experience, strategic communications expertise, and deep familiarity with the challenges facing Irish SME owners.

Berry pointed to growing uncertainty around the EU Pay Transparency Directive as a significant source of strain for smaller organisations.

He said: "There's a real sense of confusion among business owners right now. They're trying to do the right thing, but the guidance isn't always clear and the timelines keep shifting. That creates risk and pressure, particularly for smaller organisations without in-house HR teams."

Berry also highlighted a sharp rise in demand for employment permits, with more than 31,000 issued in Ireland last year, as businesses increasingly look beyond domestic talent pools to fill roles. He noted that while international hiring presents opportunity, it also introduces complexity requiring clear, practical support.

ORC, part of the AllPro People Group founded by David Gleeson, has recently expanded its services to include employment permit support in direct response to this demand. The firm differentiates itself through a hands-on model offering direct access to experienced HR professionals rather than call centres or scripted advice.

Gleeson said Berry brings a rare combination of operational experience, strategic insight, and communication expertise, adding that he understands the pressures SME owners face having worked alongside them for years.

Read the full appointment announcement and company background.