We are delighted to announce that our CEO, Barry Whelan, has been appointed Chair of the Employers Sub-Group of the Labour Market Advisory Council by Dara Calleary.

The Labour Market Advisory Council (LMAC) plays an important role in advising Government on the performance and direction of Ireland’s labour market. The Council focuses on reducing unemployment, increasing workforce participation, and helping shape policies and initiatives that support people into meaningful employment.

LMAC also tracks employment trends and workforce changes across the country to ensure Government and industry remain informed about evolving labour market needs and challenges.

The Employers Sub-Group works closely with employers across Ireland to better understand the real-world challenges businesses are facing. The group helps identify barriers to hiring, supports stronger pathways from the Live Register into employment, and places a particular focus on supporting those at risk of long-term unemployment.

Barry’s appointment reflects both his long-standing commitment to the recruitment industry and his passion for creating more inclusive employment opportunities across Ireland.

Through the work of Excel Recruitment and Stelfox Tech Recruitment, Barry works closely with employers and job seekers across a wide range of sectors and sees first-hand how rapidly the employment landscape continues to evolve.

From skills shortages and changing workforce expectations to shifting career paths and the challenges faced by people returning to work, Irish employers are navigating an increasingly complex labour market.

At the same time, many job seekers continue to face barriers that can make accessing employment difficult. These barriers can include childcare, accessibility, transport, confidence, training opportunities, or extended time away from the workforce.

Barry believes that understanding these challenges — and identifying practical solutions — will be central to the work of the Employers Sub-Group.

“Inclusivity is not simply a buzzword — it must be embedded into how organisations recruit, support, and develop people,” Barry said.

At Excel Recruitment, inclusivity has long been a core focus. The company has partnered with organisations including Chime, Open Doors Initiative, Vision Ireland, and Way 2 Work Ireland to better understand the experiences of underrepresented communities and support more accessible pathways into employment.

These partnerships have reinforced the importance of listening to both employers and job seekers to ensure meaningful and practical progress can be made.

As part of his new role, Barry will also establish a small advisory circle of business leaders to help ensure that real-world employer insights contribute directly to discussions and recommendations within the Council.

Everyone at Excel Recruitment would like to congratulate Barry on this well-deserved appointment, and we look forward to supporting the important work ahead in helping shape a stronger, more inclusive, and future-focused labour market in Ireland.