ORS achieves rapid growth through people-first acquisitions

In just a few years, ORS has evolved from a civil and structural engineering firm into one of Ireland’s most dynamic multidisciplinary consultancies, driven by a blend of organic expansion and seven well-calculated acquisitions. The company now employs nearly 300 specialists, covering engineering, surveying, sustainability, fire safety, and project management.

Led by managing director John Brennan, the firm’s growth model puts people and culture at the core of its mergers and acquisitions. Rather than absorbing companies, ORS integrates them through transparency and respect—a strategy that has achieved full leadership retention across all seven acquired firms. “We acquire great businesses with great people,” Brennan said, “and make sure they continue to thrive.”

The company’s success lies in its bespoke integration framework, developed by group integration lead Olivia Cuddihy, ensuring that each merger aligns with shared values and operational synergies. Notable additions such as John Spain Associates and Pro Fire have strengthened ORS’s position as Ireland’s largest fire safety consultancy and a one-stop provider for the entire project lifecycle.

Beyond private growth, ORS plays a central role in Ireland’s housing delivery under Project Tosaigh II with the Land Development Agency—supporting large-scale residential developments through technical assurance and multidisciplinary expertise.

As Ireland pushes for sustainable, high-quality housing, ORS’s integrated, human-first model demonstrates how strategic collaboration can scale impact without compromising integrity.

Explore how ORS’s people-led growth strategy is reshaping Ireland’s built environment in the full article.