Ray Byrne continues:
"The firm has experienced significant growth in recent years, and I would like to thank Mark Walsh for his outstanding leadership and contribution during that time. From this strong foundation, we will continue to invest in our people, strengthen our client relationships and further enhance our position in the Irish market.”
Mark Walsh, Head of Ireland at Addleshaw Goddard, said:
"I am delighted to congratulate Ray on his appointment. He is an exceptional lawyer and leader who is highly respected by colleagues, clients and peers alike. Addleshaw Goddard’s business in Ireland will continue to thrive and grow under Ray’s leadership.
"It has been a privilege to serve as Head of Ireland over the past five years and to have steered the successful merger between Eugene F. Collins and Addleshaw Goddard in 2022. I am grateful for the support of my colleagues and clients throughout that time and look forward to supporting Ray as he transitions into the role."
Andrew Johnston, Global Managing Partner of Addleshaw Goddard, said:
“Mark has made an exceptional contribution to our firm. His vision and leadership have helped transform Addleshaw Goddard in Ireland into the successful international law firm that we are today.
"I look forward to working closely with Ray as we continue to grow our business and support clients both domestically and internationally. Ireland is a strategically important market for Addleshaw Goddard, and I am confident that we will maintain our positive momentum under Ray's leadership of our Dublin office."
About Ray Byrne
Ray Byrne is Head of the Banking and Finance Department at Addleshaw Goddard Ireland and has more than 14 years' experience advising domestic and international clients on complex financing transactions. Recognised as one of Ireland's leading finance lawyers, he advises banks, alternative lenders, sponsors and corporate borrowers across a broad range of acquisition finance, real estate finance, development finance and corporate lending mandates. Since becoming Head of Banking and Finance in 2022, Ray has played a key role in the continued growth and development of the firm's finance practice and has been instrumental in strengthening client relationships across the Irish and international markets. Prior to joining Addleshaw Goddard, Ray practised in banking and finance groups with a number of leading law firms in Dublin.
Leadership Appointments
As part of Addleshaw Goddard's continued investment in its people and strategic growth in Ireland, from the first of January 2027 Piaras Power will step into Ray Byrne’s role as Head of Banking and Finance, reflecting the significant contribution he has made in helping to drive the continued expansion of the practice since joining the firm as a partner in 2025. Having worked closely with Ray Byrne and John Kearns, Piaras brings more than 20 years' experience and will build on the strong momentum of a team that has more than doubled in size over the past four years. Neil Bourke has also been appointed Head of Real Estate, succeeding Sean Twomey, who will continue to focus on his market-leading client practice while supporting the team's ongoing development. Since joining the firm in 2022, Neil has established himself as a leading adviser in the Irish real estate market, and his appointment, alongside Piaras's, reflects the firm's commitment to developing exceptional talent, strengthening sector expertise and delivering long-term value for clients as part of its AG2030 strategy.
