CREGG Insights is a monthly Leadership & Recruitment podcast that dives into the world of work, hosted by Oisín Browne, Sales & Marketing Manager at CREGG, your Trusted Partner in Recruitment. Each episode features expert interviews and inspiring stories focused on career transitions, CV building, job interviews, leadership, motivation, and personal growth. Whether you're a job seeker, career changer, recruiter, or team leader, this podcast delivers insights and real-world advice to help you navigate your career. Visit www.cregg.ie to find out more about career support and opportunities.
Building Careers in Construction with Sean McNerney, National Construction Account Manager with CREGG
Construction is one of Ireland's fastest-growing industries, offering opportunities for everyone from apprentices and general operatives to experienced engineers and project managers.
In this episode of CREGG Insights, we're joined by Sean McNerney, National Construction Account Manager at CREGG, to discuss the current construction recruitment market, career opportunities, and what both employers and candidates need to know.
Why construction continues to be one of Ireland's strongest growth sectors.
The wide variety of roles available, from General Operatives and Skilled Trades to Site Managers and Project Managers.
How apprenticeships can provide an excellent pathway into the industry.
The skills and qualities employers value most.
Current salary trends and the demand for skilled construction professionals.
Why construction offers long-term career security.
How technology is changing the industry and why AI is unlikely to replace skilled construction workers.
Advice for employers on retaining great people.
Practical tips for candidates looking to build a successful career in construction.
Whether you're considering a career in construction, recruiting for your next project, or simply interested in where the industry is heading, this episode provides valuable insights from someone working in the sector every day.
Sean McNerney is CREGG's National Construction Account Manager, partnering with construction companies across Ireland to recruit talent at every level, from site-based roles and skilled trades through to engineering and management positions.
📧 seanmcnerney@cregg.ie (mailto:seanmcnerney@cregg.ie)
📞 086 827 4076
☎️ 091 700 814
Website: https://www.cregg.ie (https://www.cregg.ie)
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cregg-group/ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/cregg-group/)
Thank you for listening to CREGG Insights. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network.
In this episode, we discuss:About Sean McNerneyContact SeanConnect with CREGG
8 Jun 2026
Building a Career in Automation with Sam Scriven, Automation Recruitment Manager at CREGG
In this episode of CREGG Insights, we sit down with Sam Scriven, Automation Recruitment Manager at CREGG, to explore what it really takes to build a successful career in automation.
From robotics and PLC programming to Industry 4.0 and AI integration, automation is reshaping manufacturing, engineering and global industry. But beyond the buzzwords, what does an automation engineer actually do? What skills are in demand? And how can graduates position themselves for long-term success in this rapidly evolving field?
What automation really means in today’s industrial world
The difference between industrial automation and software automation
Why PLC programmers with 4–5 years’ experience are in high demand
The growing influence of AI in manufacturing environments
The importance of soft skills and communication on the factory floor
Why Irish engineers are globally sought after
How system integrators can accelerate early-career development
The long-term global opportunities within automation
Sam also shares practical advice for graduates and early-career engineers, including why gaining hands-on project exposure through system integrators can be career-defining.
Whether you're a student considering engineering, a professional thinking about specialising, or a business exploring automation investment, this episode offers a grounded, real-world look at where the industry is heading.
Automation is not just about machines replacing people — it’s about speed, precision, data, and building smarter systems for the future.
For automation opportunities or hiring support, connect with Sam via CREGG.ie or LinkedIn.
Follow CREGG Insights for more conversations shaping recruitment, leadership and the future of work.
In this episode, we discuss:
22 Apr 2026
Salary Expectation Versus Reality with Tomislav Dzanak, Contingent Team Lead with CREGG
In this episode of CREGG Insights, we sit down with Tomislav Dzanak, Contingent Team Lead at CREGG, to explore one of the most common and often misunderstood career topics: salary expectation versus market reality.
With shifting market conditions, rising living costs and increased candidate mobility, aligning salary expectations with true market value has never been more important. Tom shares frontline insight from working with both employers and candidates across Ireland, highlighting where expectations often diverge from reality and how to close that gap.
Tom highlights the importance of communication, culture and career progression planning explaining why money alone rarely solves retention challenges long term.
For professionals, this episode offers a grounded perspective on how to position yourself realistically, negotiate strategically and build long-term career value.
For employers, it provides clear insight into how culture, transparency and development pathways influence retention far more than reactive pay increases.
If you are reviewing your salary expectations, considering a career move, or benchmarking your hiring strategy, this episode delivers practical, real-world guidance from the recruitment front line.
Connect with Tomislav Dzanak via LinkedIn or through CREGG.ie.
Follow CREGG Insights for more conversations shaping recruitment, leadership and the future of work.
In this episode, we discuss:
9 Mar 2026
Understanding Contracting with Breda Murphy, National Contracting Manager at CREGG
In this episode of CREGG Insights, we sit down with Breda Murphy, National Contracting Manager at CREGG, to demystify contracting and explore why it continues to grow across Ireland’s evolving employment market.
With over 12 years’ experience in specialist contracting recruitment, Breda shares practical insights into how the model works for both employers and professionals — and why it has become a strategic workforce solution across sectors including engineering, finance, IT, automotive and project management.
What contracting actually means in today’s market
How CREGG manages the full end-to-end contracting process
Why businesses use contractors to scale projects quickly and efficiently
The speed advantage of contracting versus permanent hiring
Contract lengths and how market conditions influence demand
Why 70% of CREGG contractors transition into permanent roles
The onboarding process — both back-end payroll and on-site integration
How contracting offers flexibility, career progression and access to top organisations
Practical advice for companies new to contracting
Guidance for professionals considering contracting for the first time
Breda also addresses common misconceptions — including cost concerns and economic uncertainty — and explains why contracting is often a lower-risk, higher-flexibility hiring model.
For more insights on leadership, recruitment and the future of work, follow CREGG on LinkedIn or visit cregg.ie.
17 Feb 2026
Smarter Recruitment Decisions with Alan Grant, National Recruitment Manager for the Finance and Commercial Sector at CREGG.
In this episode of CREGG Insights, we are joined by Alan Grant, National Recruitment Manager for the Finance and Commercial sector at CREGG.
With 17 years in recruitment and a professional background in finance, Alan shares practical, experience-led insight into what truly drives smarter hiring decisions in today’s evolving market.
• The difference between agency recruitment and in-house hiring
• Why specialist knowledge improves candidate quality and long-term fit
• The growing importance of cultural alignment alongside technical skill
• How hiring managers can avoid eliminating strong candidates too early
• What candidates consistently get wrong on their CVs
• Why tailoring applications is critical in a competitive market
• The role of pace and communication in securing top talent
• Why interviews are always a two-way process
• When candidates should address concerns internally before moving roles
Alan also shares clear, practical advice for both employers and job seekers on how to approach recruitment with clarity, professionalism and long-term thinking.
This episode is a grounded, honest look at recruitment from both sides of the table and a must-listen for anyone making hiring decisions or considering their next career move.
For more insights on leadership, recruitment and the future of work, follow CREGG on LinkedIn or visit cregg.ie.
13 Jan 2026
HR, Compliance and Peace of Mind for Irish Employers with Conor Harty, Managing Director, Access HR
Conor Harty, Managing Director of Access HR, discusses the evolution and strategic importance of HR for Irish businesses, emphasizing proactive people management and compliance in an interview with CREGG Insights.
16 Dec 2025
Mastering A New Job: Leadership & Interview Coach, Laura McGrath on Leadership, Mindset and Resilience
Leadership Coach Laura McGrath discusses with host Oisín Browne strategies for professionals to thrive in new roles by cultivating resilience, managing mindset, and building strong relationships in this interview.
10 Nov 2025
Recruitment Trends with Christopher Paye, Country Director for The Stepstone Group, Ireland and Irish Jobs
Christopher Paye, Country Director for The Stepstone Group, discusses the evolution of recruitment with Oisín Browne, from traditional methods to AI-powered systems, emphasizing skills-based hiring and the importance of adaptability in today's job market in this interview.
18 Oct 2025
The Emotional Edge with Niamh Hannan, chartered psychologist, Executive coach, and expert in Emotional Connection Strategy (EMC)
Oisín Browne interviews Niamh Hannan, a chartered psychologist, about emotional intelligence in the workplace, revealing how strong relationships improve job satisfaction and productivity.
19 Sept 2025
Shaping Sustainability with Tadhg O’Donovan, Senior Business Transformation Practitioner, 3SIXTY
Tadhg O’Donovan, Senior Business Transformation Practitioner, defines sustainability in business, examining carbon footprints and the circular economy, in this interview on practical steps for organizations.
11 Aug 2025
The Business of Recognition with Jill Thornton, Head of Events Division at Ashville Media Group
Host [Host Name] interviews Jill Thornton, Head of Events Division at Ashville Media Group, about leveraging awards for business growth and brand credibility.
7 Jul 2025
Culture & Leadership With Gary Neville, Leadership Communications Expert
Gary Neville, leadership communications expert, examines the vital connection between genuine leadership and company culture, providing strategies to improve engagement and foster trust in this interview with CREGG Insights.
2 Jun 2025
CV Optimization with Statia O’Carroll, Expert Career Mentor and founder of O’Carroll Careers
Statia O’Carroll, Expert Career Mentor, discusses optimizing your CV to highlight your value and catch the eye of recruiters, providing actionable strategies for job seekers in this interview.
6 May 2025
Leveraging Linkedin with Mark Valentine, Linkedin Enterprise Account Director
In this episode of CREGG Insights, Oisín Browne sits down with Mark Valentine, Enterprise Account Director at LinkedIn, to explore how professionals can fully leverage LinkedIn to enhance their careers and visibility in the job market.
Listeners will learn how to:
Optimise their profile to attract the right attention
Use job alerts and signal openness to recruiters while maintaining privacy
Build a meaningful network with thoughtful connection requests
Increase visibility by engaging with content and industry professionals
Add testimonials and recommendations to enhance credibility
Use LinkedIn strategically for job research and preparation
Mark also addresses common pitfalls—like sending mass connection requests—and emphasises the importance of authentic, value-driven engagement.
Whether you’re job-seeking, hiring, or simply want to stay connected with your industry, this episode is packed with actionable insights on using LinkedIn as a powerful professional tool.
Listen now to learn how to take your LinkedIn presence to the next level.
10 Apr 2025
Interview Mastery with Laura McGrath
In this episode of CREGG Insights, Oisín Browne sits down with Laura McGrath, a leadership and interview coach with 25 years of experience in recruitment. Laura began her career in accounting before finding her passion in recruitment and later transitioning into executive coaching. Today, she empowers professionals to approach interviews with confidence and clarity.
Laura shares her top strategies for interview success, including:
Why knowing your own CV inside-out is the first step to confidence
How to research a company and its competitors effectively
The importance of grounding yourself before the interview to show up energized and present
Tips for answering the classic “Tell me about yourself” question with impact
How to handle questions about weaknesses and challenges with authenticity and self-awareness
Why your closing and follow-up can set you apart from other candidates
This episode is packed with practical advice for job seekers and career changers who want to make a strong impression in their next interview.
🔍 Ready to bring your best self to your next big opportunity? This conversation is for you.
🎧 Subscribe to CREGG Insights for monthly episodes, and visit www.cregg.ie (https://www.cregg.ie) for more career support and opportunities. Check out Laura on www.interviewtechniques.ie
8 Apr 2025
Welcome to CREGG Insights
CREGG Insights is a monthly podcast hosted by Oisín Browne, Sales & Marketing Manager at CREGG, Your Trusted Recruitment Partner. Each episode features expert interviews and inspiring stories focused on career transitions, CV building, interviews, leadership, motivation, and personal growth. Whether you're a job seeker, career changer, or team leader, this podcast offers real-world advice to help you grow. Visit www.cregg.ie (http://www.cregg.ie) to find out more about Career support and opportunities.
Who has been a guest on CREGG Insights
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Conor Harty
Laura McGrath
Christopher Paye
Niamh Hannan
Tadhg O’Donovan
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Spotify
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 16 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
19
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
Host of CREGG Insights?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
