JLL announces leadership succession plans for Ireland

• JLL has announced a leadership succession plan for its Ireland business, effective January 2027, with Deirdre Costello appointed CEO Ireland and John Moran becoming Chairman, Ireland. Separately, Dan O’Connor has been appointed Head of Capital Markets and Hotels, Ireland, with immediate effect.
• The appointments reflect JLL’s long-term focus on developing leadership talent from within, with the three leaders bringing more than 90 years of combined experience at the firm
• The new leadership structure is designed to support JLL Ireland’s next phase of growth and strengthen client service across leasing, capital markets and advisory services

JLL has announced a series of leadership appointments for its Ireland business that reinforce the firm’s commitment to developing talent from within and position the business for its next phase of growth.

Effective January 2027, Deirdre Costello, currently Head of Leasing Advisory, will become CEO Ireland, succeeding John Moran, who will move into the newly reintroduced role of Chairman, Ireland. Dan O’Connor has also been appointed Head of Capital Markets and Hotels, Ireland, succeeding Moran in the Capital Markets leadership role while continuing to lead the Hotels business. Costello will continue to serve as Head of Leasing Advisory alongside her new responsibilities.

Costello brings more than 30 years of experience with JLL and has advised on many of Dublin’s landmark office developments. As CEO Ireland, she will lead the firm’s continued growth strategy with a focus on combining JLL’s global expertise, technology and market intelligence to deliver value for local clients.

Matthew Richards, CEO, JLL UK and EMEA Capital Markets, said:

“These appointments reflect the exceptional leadership talent we have within JLL and our commitment to developing people throughout their careers. Deirdre, John and Dan are highly respected leaders who have each made a significant contribution to our success in Ireland. Deirdre brings a clear vision for the future of the business, John will continue to provide invaluable leadership and client connectivity as Chairman, and Dan’s expertise and commercial acumen make him ideally placed to lead Capital Markets.”

Costello added:

“JLL has been my professional home for more than 30 years, and I am incredibly proud to have the opportunity to lead our Ireland business. We have a very talented team, extremely strong client relationships and a tremendous platform for growth. I look forward to building on the strong foundations already in place and working with colleagues across JLL to deliver exceptional outcomes for our clients in Ireland.”

After more than 40 years with JLL, including serving as CEO Ireland since 2009, Moran will become Chairman, Ireland from January 2027. During his tenure, JLL Ireland expanded its capabilities, strengthened its market position and built a strong reputation with investors and occupiers across the country.

Moran said:

“It has been a privilege to lead JLL Ireland for the past 17 years. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and the talented team we have built. I am excited to continue supporting the business in the role of Chairman as JLL Ireland enters its next phase of growth.”

O’Connor’s appointment follows a nearly 20-year career with JLL. Since becoming Head of Hotels & Living Ireland in 2023, he has advised on significant transactions across the hotels, residential and wider living sectors.

O’Connor added:

“Ireland’s investment market continues to present significant opportunities for clients across asset classes. I am looking forward to working with our teams across all Capital Markets service lines to help clients navigate change, unlock value and achieve their strategic objectives.”

1. When do the leadership changes take effect?

Dan O’Connor’s appointment as Head of Capital Markets and Hotels, Ireland takes effect on September 1, 2026. Deirdre Costello’s appointment as CEO Ireland and John Moran’s transition to Chairman, Ireland will take effect in January 2027.

2. Who will become CEO of JLL Ireland?

Deirdre Costello, currently Head of Leasing Advisory, will become CEO Ireland while continuing in her leasing leadership role.

3. What role will John Moran take on?

John Moran will become Chairman, Ireland, after serving as CEO Ireland since 2009 and leading the Capital Markets business.

4. What will Dan O’Connor oversee in his new position?

Dan O’Connor will lead Capital Markets and Hotels in Ireland, continuing to oversee the Hotels business while taking on broader Capital Markets leadership responsibilities.

5. Why are these appointments significant for JLL Ireland?

The appointments demonstrate JLL’s focus on leadership succession, talent development and continued growth in the Ireland market.