Executive Team

Gavin Connolly Director of Services

Gavin Connolly

Gavin has over 30 years’ experience working across homeless and housing services in Ireland and Scotland, with a strong commitment to supporting marginalised communities and improving housing outcomes for vulnerable people. Throughout his career, he has helped develop and establish innovative housing models, led service evaluations, and contributed to the growth of tenant-focused services. As […]

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Heather Ashton Director of Finance

Heather Ashton

Heather brings over 25 years of experience across the social housing, higher education, finance, retail, and manufacturing sectors. She has extensive expertise in strategic and financial planning, governance, treasury, mergers and acquisitions, business transformation, and performance improvement. Heather spent over a decade at Thirteen Housing Group, where she served as Executive Director of Resources and

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Colin Keating Director of Asset Management

Colin Keating

Colin joined Circle in 2022, bringing over 20 years’ experience in building and construction. He leads the property management team alongside the new business and development team, overseeing major multi-unit developments with a strong focus on health, safety, and sustainability. A licensed Principal Officer, Colin applies his technical expertise to support effective asset management through

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Liz Clarke Director of Housing Services

Liz Clarke

Liz has over 20 years’ experience working in the social housing and non-profit sectors. Prior to taking up this role, Liz was Director of Services at Circle VHA, where she led housing services, service improvement, strategic projects, and organisational development initiatives. Liz has extensive experience leading mergers, project management, housing management, stakeholder engagement, quality standards,

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John Hannigan CEO of Circle VHA

John Hannigan

John is CEO of Circle and a leading voice in social and affordable housing in Ireland. Since 2017, he has overseen Circle’s growth, securing major funding deals, expanding housing delivery, and building strategic partnerships. With 30+ years’ experience in housing, finance, and non-profits, he has held senior roles at Respond, Sunbeam House, and top firms

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