Senior Management Team
Fergal O’Leary, Chief Executive Officer
Fergal O’Leary was appointed CEO of AHBRA in September 2024. An experienced public sector leader, Fergal has in-depth knowledge of governance, regulation and enforcement, research and policy development as well as corporate and consumer communications.
Prior to joining AHBRA, Fergal led the development of a new statutory registration regime for short-term tourist accommodation with Fáilte Ireland as part of the Housing for All strategy. Previously he was a Commissioner with the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission. Fergal holds a Masters in Applied Governance and a Masters in Economics.
Leona McMahon, Head of Legal and Compliance
Leona joined AHBRA as Head of Legal and Compliance in June 2022. She is the legal advisor to AHBRA in its exercise of its functions, duties and powers under its governing legislation and provides legal advice across the organisation. Leona has more than twenty years’ legal experience in both the private and public sectors, with a focus on the areas of property, housing and statutory enforcement. She is a solicitor and worked in private practice before joining the public sector. She holds a Degree in Law and European Studies and professional Certificates in Data Protection and Technology Law from the Law Society of Ireland.
Paula Nyland, Head of Regulation (Registration & Assessments)
Paula Nyland was appointed Head of Regulation in October 2023. She is responsible for the Registration and Assessment teams with a key focus on effective and efficient management of those functions.
Previously Paula was Head of Finance and Corporate Services with AHBRA from November 2021. She is a fellow chartered accountant with over 25 years’ experience in several financial areas including internal audit; financial reporting; and planning. Paula’s most recent role was in the non-profit sector where for six years she was Head of Finance and Operations in Benefacts providing analysis, training and services to both the non-profit sector and government bodies.
Antonia Smyth, Head of Regulation (Regulatory Oversight and Communications) 
Antonia Smyth was appointed Head of Regulation in March 2024. Antonia has responsibility for overseeing the implementation and delivery of all aspects of Regulatory Oversight and Communication functions of AHBRA.
She has over 20 years’ experience within the international financial services sector where she held senior leadership, governance and regulatory roles. Antonia’s most recent role was in the local government sector where she was Head of Housing for Westmeath County Council for a number of years.
Kerrie-Ann Doyle, Head of Finance and Corporate Services 
Kerrie-Ann Doyle was appointed Head of Finance and Corporate Services in February 2024. Kerrie-Ann is responsible for all aspects of financial management, planning and reporting in line with OCAG requirements. She also has oversight of procurement and all aspects of AHBRA’s corporate services functions including accounting, HR, ICT, recruitment, and facilities.