Wilo Ireland appoints Richard Swinburne as new Managing Director
Richard Swinburne has been appointed as the new managing director of Wilo Ireland, one of the global leaders in water technology and energy-efficient pump solutions, as it targets growth in data centres, water management and traditional HVAC in residential and commercial areas.
With over 20 years of experience across the utilities, HVAC and industrial sectors, Richard possesses a wealth of knowledge in pump and water-delivery applications, with his most recent position being the managing director of Xylem Water Solutions Ireland.
He aims to utilise his expertise and the solutions within the wider Wilo global platform to grow the Wilo Ireland business and team. Alongside this, Richard’s ambition is to deliver best-practice sustainability, which is a key factor in why he chose to take the role.
Speaking about his appointment, Richard Swinburne said, “I am delighted to be joining Wilo Ireland at such a great point in its journey. The strides Wilo has been making as a group in sustainability are what initially drew me to the position. As four-time winners of the top EcoVadis Platinum sustainability rating and with climate-neutral factories across Europe, Wilo’s emphasis on environmental consciousness mirrors my own ideals of prioritising eco-friendly practices across building services, water management, and industry.
“In my new role, I plan to continue the award-winning work of Wilo Group, transferring that global knowledge here in Ireland, so that our buildings and water management infrastructure becomes ever-greener, and we can accelerate toward our environmental targets. ”
Richard Swinburne joins Wilo Ireland at a crucial time as the country faces infrastructure, water, and energy challenges—particularly the risk of electricity demand outpacing supply. His immediate priority is driving energy efficiency through audits, identifying inefficient commercial pumps, and supplying modern retrofits. Richard will also enhance water management systems, leveraging Wilo UK’s successful end-to-end water treatment package.
Lee Tebbatt, MD of Wilo UK, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Richard. His industry experience and commitment to sustainability, water security, and energy embody Wilo’s mission. He will be invaluable to Wilo Ireland’s growth.”