Kilsaran has announced the appointment of JJ Comerford as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and member of the company’s main Board. JJ brings over two decades of international finance leadership, a proven record in value creation and deep expertise in financial management to help drive Kilsaran’s next phase of growth.
JJ joins Kilsaran from Aryzta AG, where he most recently served as Group Financial Controller following several years as CFO of Aryzta Europe, helping to guide the business through its turnaround.
His career spans senior finance and controlling positions with Riverdeep and HMH, through a Nasdaq IPO and multiple high value transactions in the USA and in emerging markets. He is a Fellow of Chartered Accountants Ireland.
JJ succeeds Tom McCarthy, who is retiring after an extraordinary 25-year tenure as CFO. Tom has been instrumental in shaping Kilsaran’s financial strategy and guiding the company through significant periods of expansion and change. His dedication, integrity, and leadership have left an indelible mark on the organization.
Commenting on the transition, the Board of Kilsaran stated: “We are delighted to welcome JJ to Kilsaran. His experience and leadership will be invaluable as we continue to grow and evolve. At the same time, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Tom McCarthy for his outstanding contribution over 25 years.”
Kilsaran also welcomes Barry Rafferty to its Board. Barry brings over 30 years of leadership experience in the wholesale building materials and manufacturing sectors across Ireland and the UK. He joined Kilsaran in November 2023 as Managing Director of its KPRO Facades and Paving business units, and since then has played a pivotal role in driving strategic growth and operational excellence.
Barry began his career in 1993 with Kingspan Building Products as Polymer Engineering Manager, laying the foundation for a distinguished trajectory in technical and commercial leadership. Between the late 1990s and early 2000s, he held senior technical and commercial roles before joining Hytherm Ltd. as Technical Manager. He advanced to Operations Director and played a key role in the company’s evolution into Xtratherm, eventually becoming Managing Director for Ireland and the UK. In that capacity, he led significant business transformation and operational integration initiatives.
Barry’s leadership is marked by a deep understanding of technical operations, a sharp commercial instinct, and a proven ability to deliver results across complex organisational landscapes.
Commenting on Barry’s appointment, the board of Kilsaran stated: “Joining the board, Barry is set to play a key role in advancing the company’s growth agenda, enhancing efficiency, and aligning regional strategies”.
