Alan Connolly is a seasoned finance executive with over three decades of experience in the building materials and construction sectors. A Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland, he began his career at KPMG, where he honed his expertise in audit and financial advisory services. In 2000, Connolly joined CRH plc, initially serving as Finance Director for its European Materials business, where he played a pivotal role in driving operational efficiencies and supporting key acquisitions across the continent. Throughout his tenure at CRH, Connolly advanced through senior roles, including Group Financial Controller from 2013, overseeing global financial reporting, treasury operations, and compliance for the Fortune 500 company's diverse portfolio. His leadership was instrumental in navigating complex mergers and integrations, such as the $10 billion acquisition of Ash Grove Cement, contributing to CRH's sustained revenue growth and market expansion. Connolly's strategic acumen and commitment to robust governance earned him recognition as a key architect of the company's financial resilience during volatile economic periods. In August 2020, following the retirement announcement of long-serving CFO Richard Perry, Connolly was appointed Interim Chief Financial Officer of CRH plc. During his 18-month stint in this role, he ensured seamless continuity in financial strategy, investor relations, and capital allocation amid the COVID-19 pandemic, while facilitating a smooth transition to permanent CFO Mark Towe in early 2022. Connolly retired from CRH in 2022, leaving a legacy of fiscal discipline and innovation.