International business and IT consulting firm emagine has appointed James O’Donnell as Commercial Director to strengthen the firm’s operation in Ireland.

O’Donnell has more than 20 years of experience in driving business development across the consulting and outsourcing industries.

At emagine, he is tasked with supporting the firm’s ongoing growth strategy locally in Ireland from the company’s base in Cork.

This includes bringing in new customers but also developing account management and services for existing clients, to ensure they continue to receive access to market-leading tech expertise and a ‘best in class’ service in a volatile business environment.

Speaking about his new role, O’Donnell, says: “The tech and business landscape in Ireland is in constant flux, exacerbated by a long-standing shortage of tech talent which makes it hard for businesses to bring in the resources they need to adapt.

“The Artificial Intelligence boom and raft of regulatory frameworks in the pipeline also present unique and complex challenges.

“Therefore, any business development at emagine must incorporate these challenges and provide solutions because our growth as a firm is intrinsically linked to the growth and success of our clients.

“I’m delighted to join the experts at emagine and be a part of supporting our clients to realise their growth potential, whether this be through our locally-based talent, or our nearshore or offshore resourcing services.”

Gillian Whelan, Managing Director of emagine’s operation in Ireland added:  “We’re excited to have James on board.

“He brings with him a wealth of business development experience and fresh ideas and perspectives on how we can best support existing and future clients.  He’s a real asset to the team.”

In Ireland, the consultancy has more than 200 employees and contractors based out of offices in Cork and Dublin, specialising within finance, insurance, utilities, pharma and the public sector.

The firm’s experienced consultants support clients with business challenges by providing digital, tech, and business consulting services, training, and managed solutions delivered through ‘bestshoring’, the firm’s practice of bringing together bespoke global teams for each project. 

From small Nordic roots, emagine has grown to be a leading player in the consultancy sector, employing more than 900 full-time staff and more than 4,500 consultants on contract in a network of 25 offices across Ireland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, Poland, Portugal, Sweden, the UK, UAE and India.

The firm’s total revenue reached £414m (€498m) in 2023, representing a 14% year-on-year rise despite challenging market conditions.