The People behind our Projects

Bernard McNamee is a distinguished professional with a background as a qualified Quantity Surveyor, boasting over 15 years of experience in the construction and hospitality sectors. His track record encompasses the successful delivery of a wide spectrum of projects, ranging from innovative, one-of-a-kind concepts to expansive large-scale mixed-use developments. One of Bernard’s achievements includes his role in the internationally acclaimed Harcourt Developments Titanic Quarter project in Belfast, recognized as Europe’s largest waterfront regeneration endeavor. Prior to the establishment of Affect in 2020, Bernard played a central role in the expansion of PMac’s Hospitality Group’s portfolio in New York City. His strategic acumen and dedication to excellence were instrumental in elevating the group’s standing in the industry. In 2020, alongside his partner Cathal, Bernard co-founded Affect Build and assumed the role of Managing Director. In this capacity, he provides comprehensive oversight across all facets of the business on a daily basis. Bernard’s leadership and commitment to excellence continue to drive Affect Build’s success, solidifying its reputation as an industry leader in delivering exceptional results.

Cathal brings an extensive portfolio of experience, spanning nearly a decade, to his role in boutique and large-scale commercial real estate developments. Throughout his career, he has held key positions at prestigious firms, including AKF, Wonder Works Construction, and, most notably, Xin Development, the US investment arm of Xinyuan RE. In his capacity at Xin Development, Cathal demonstrated his prowess by overseeing numerous development and construction projects, further solidifying his reputation as a seasoned industry professional. Cathal’s responsibilities have encompassed the successful delivery of over 500,000 square feet of development and construction projects, ranging from ground-up constructions to intricate office renovations. His versatile expertise and keen project management skills have consistently ensured that projects are completed with precision and efficiency. A Qualified Mechanical Engineer by profession, Cathal augments his technical knowledge with a Master’s degree in Real Estate Development from NYU Schack. This unique blend of engineering acumen and real estate expertise positions him as a valuable asset in navigating the complex intersection of technical requirements and real estate development, making him an indispensable contributor to the success of any project he undertakes.

With over two decades of experience in New York City’s millwork industry, Stephen has amassed extensive knowledge and skills across numerous projects. He leads the oversight of millwork, upholstery, metal, glass, and stone fabrication—from engineering through installation and handover. Stephen specializes in value engineering, design, and the highest quality fabrication, focusing on projects in Hospitality, Commercial,Bespoke Residential, Healthcare, and Historical sectors. His expertise ensures our projects benefit from his deep insight and in-house knowledge, contributing to our reputation for excellence.

Enda Forrey, with a strong foundation in engineering, assumes a pivotal role as the General Superintendent, providing comprehensive oversight of daily construction operations across all active projects. His extensive and diverse experience encompasses the successful delivery of intricate projects spanning various sectors, including ground-up residential developments, corporate interiors, healthcare facilities, retail spaces, theaters, and hospitality establishments. Enda’s leadership ensures that Affect maintains a harmonious alignment within its field teams, encompassing critical facets such as scheduling, quality assurance, safety protocols, individual goals, and project priorities. His meticulous attention to detail, combined with his profound knowledge of construction processes, guarantees that each project under his stewardship progresses in an organized and systematic manner, culminating in outcomes marked by precision and focus. Enda Forrey’s unwavering commitment to excellence and his ability to instill a sense of discipline and rigor within the construction operations make him an invaluable asset to Affect. His role is instrumental in driving the successful execution of projects, consistently meeting and exceeding client expectations.

David Mangan is a highly qualified Quantity Surveyor who embarked on his career in Ireland before making his mark in New York. With a sterling reputation, he has consistently demonstrated his expertise in uncovering cost-effective solutions for both commonplace and intricate construction challenges. In his pivotal role, David assumes responsibility for directing and supervising all estimating and pre-construction activities within the company. His work is marked by diligence, precision, and a profound understanding of Construction Processes, Budgeting, Value Engineering, and Procurement, showcasing his exceptional commercial acumen. David’s portfolio boasts a wide spectrum of projects, spanning from $2 million to $35 million, encompassing diverse market sectors such as hospitality, ground-up residential developments, and commercial office interiors. His detailed take-off approach has consistently ensured that projects are controlled and executed within budget, while also optimizing value for clients. What sets David apart is his unwavering commitment to projects. Beyond the initial pre-construction phase, he remains with the project, overseeing each project through to its completion from a cost control aspect. This comprehensive approach ensures seamless alignment between design and budget, right through to the final account.

A master carpenter by trade, now serves as Director of Drywall and Carpentry, overseeing all field labor crews. With a foundation rooted in craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail, Shane brings a wealth of practical expertise to ensure seamless coordination and superior craftsmanship across projects. His leadership bridges the gap between production, client expectations, and on-site execution, delivering excellence in every installation. Shane's technical proficiency guarantees precision, efficiency, and exceptional quality, solidifying our commitment to excellence across diverse construction projects.

Anthony Gaston has ascended through the ranks at affect, starting as a laborer and now serving as Assistant Superintendent. With a career spanning from hands-on labor to overseeing project operations, Anthony brings a wealth of on-site experience and practical knowledge. His journey underscores a deep understanding of construction dynamics and project management, making him an invaluable asset in delivering successful projects across various sectors such as commercial office interiors, retail and hospitality interiors.

Shane O'Rourke is a Financial Controller currently based in New York, specializing in the construction industry. With a strong background in financial management, tax transactions, and financial services advisory, Shane brings strategic insight and a wealth of expertise to his role.

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Shane holds a degree in Business and Management from Technological University Dublin and completed his Chartered Accountancy (ACA) exams in Dublin while working in both Financial Services Advisory and Tax Transactions. During this time, he gained valuable experience in providing advisory services and handling complex financial transactions, including fixed charge receiverships, which further honed his skills in financial restructuring and problem-solving.

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Shane’s professional journey also includes significant experience as a Financial Accountant at a prominent legal firm in Dublin, where he managed financial reporting, tax compliance, and regulatory matters. This combination of technical expertise and industry experience allows Shane to provide effective financial leadership in his current role.

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As Financial Controller in New York’s competitive construction industry, Shane is committed to driving operational efficiency, ensuring financial integrity, and supporting the business’s long-term growth and success.

Alex Rosati is a Superintendent at Affect Build, where he leads day-to-day field operations on some of New York City’s most complex and high-profile construction projects. With a foundation in industrial engineering and a relentless drive for execution, Alex is known for maintaining schedule integrity, orchestrating subcontractor coordination, and upholding rigorous safety and site logistics standards—even on the most demanding jobs.

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Alex’s leadership style is hands-on and proactive. He is recognized for anticipating challenges before they arise, keeping projects on track through meticulous planning and clear, decisive communication with trades, consultants, and ownership teams. Whether managing precise field measurements, leading dynamic site meetings, or resolving coordination issues in real time, Alex is committed to delivering results that consistently exceed expectations for quality and efficiency.

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Starting his career in construction pre-fabrication and technology, Alex brings an innate understanding of digital tools and data-driven decision making to every project. As a construction manager, he has delivered work for some of the largest developers in New York City, with a portfolio that includes high-end office fit outs, ground-up construction for bio-medical laboratories, and historic theater renovations. His experience as a GC in New York gives him a unique perspective on navigating the city’s challenging regulatory environment and fast-paced market.

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Alex holds a B.S. in Industrial Engineering with a minor in Economics from the University of Pittsburgh, where he served as President of the Engineering Student Council and was a finalist in the university’s Randall Big Idea Competition.

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At Affect Build, Alex is a driving force within the operations team, leveraging his technical expertise and leadership to help deliver the firm’s most ambitious and impactful projects.

Conor Murphy is a trained Quantity Surveyor with a BSc (Hons) in Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management from Ulster University, Belfast. Known for his strong work ethic, attention to detail, and analytical mindset, Conor brings a solid foundation in cost planning, pre-construction, bidding, and commercial management to Affect’s estimating team.

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His education and experience in Ireland exposed him to rigorous standards in cost control, measurement, and procurement, as well as the fast-paced demands of interior fit-out and refurbishment projects. With a grounding in both academic theory and practical fieldwork, Conor approaches each project with a deep understanding of commercial risk, value engineering, and buildability.

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At Affect, Conor supports the estimating function across our commercial interiors, hospitality, and mixed-use development projects. He is responsible for preparing accurate quantity takeoffs, analyzing bid packages, and collaborating with subcontractors and suppliers to ensure competitive and complete bids from project inception through to final account closeout.

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Beyond his technical capabilities, Conor’s background as a high-level team athlete, winning titles such as the Sigerson Cup with Ulster University, shapes his approach to teamwork, discipline, and performance under pressure. He thrives in collaborative environments and is known for his dependability, initiative, and steady focus.

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Conor represents a new generation of quantity surveyors who combine digital fluency with hands-on commercial awareness, playing a key role in delivering projects that meet the high standards Affect is known for.

Leah Byrne is a Marketing and Talent Acquisition coordinator at Affect, with a strong foundation in branding, communications, and business strategy. She plays a key role in elevating the company’s brand presence while helping to attract and grow top talent across the organization.

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Leah earned her Bachelor of Commerce degree from University College Dublin before relocating to New York City. Her background in marketing and brand development gives her a unique perspective on how to connect strategy with storytelling, allowing Affect to showcase projects in compelling ways that highlight the team’s craftsmanship and innovation.

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Passionate about building authentic connections, Leah brings fresh ideas and energy to her role, strengthening Affect’s presence in the industry while fostering a culture that attracts professionals who share the company’s commitment to quality and excellence.

Ileana Aguirre is a results-driven construction professional with a proven track record managing multimillion-dollar projects from preconstruction through closeout. As Project Manager at Affect, she brings the ability to lead cross-functional teams and deliver complex builds with precision and purpose.
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Her experience spans healthcare, pharmaceutical laboratories, large-scale fit-outs, and occupied spaces, where adaptability and execution are key. Ileana’s leadership style emphasizes collaboration and clarity while guiding teams to overcome challenges and drive projects forward. Passionate about building spaces that inspire, Ileana’s detail-oriented mindset and commitment to excellence make her an invaluable addition to the Affect team.

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Jacob Kipnis is a dedicated construction professional whose experience spans on-site, in the workshop, and in the office. As Project Manager for our in-house millwork division at Make x Affect, Jacob plays a key role in ensuring that our custom millwork and interior projects are delivered with precision, efficiency, and the highest level of craftmanship.

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With strong skills in project management and operations, Jacob excels at streamlining workflows and fostering clear communication, keeping projects aligned and moving forward. His ability to balance detail-oriented oversight with big-picture project goals makes him a trusted partner for both clients and colleagues.

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Jacob is passionate about continuously improving processes, supporting community development, and contributing to the evolution of New York City’s built environment. Currently pursuing his master’s in construction management at Fordham University, Jacob combines both academic insight with practical experience to continually advance project delivery methods.

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Jacob values collaboration and integrity, and his growth mindset and dedication to continuous learning makes him a dynamic addition to the Make x Affect team.

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Micheal Reilly is a Superintendent with over experience managing high-profile retail, office and flagship renovation projects across New York and New Jersey. His background includes extensive work with brands such as Swarovski, SKIMs, Primark, Target, and Luxottica, where he has led site coordination, trade supervision, and project closeouts from start to finish.

Detailed oriented and proactive, Micheal is known for his strong communication skills, hands-on leadership style, and commitment to maintaining quality, safety, and efficiency across all phases of construction.

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Rebecca is a member of the finance team at Affect, supporting Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, and payroll functions. Having completed her studies at Dublin City University, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Studies with a major in Economics. Rebecca began her career on the revenue team of a Dublin-based software company, managing major client accounts such as Nike and Victoria’s Secret. During this time, she gained firsthand experience in the value of innovation and continuous improvement, contributing to several process-improvement projects alongside her core financial responsibilities. 

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She has also spent time in the manufacturing industry, another masterclass in efficiency. Here she observed the importance of relieving bottlenecks in complex, high-volume production operations and the critical role of strong process mapping and innovation in doing so. 

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Following her move to New York City, she transitioned into the construction industry, continually sharpening her financial skill set to match its fast pace, her previous experience has become increasingly relevant. She is committed to building lean, efficient workflow processes that support accuracy, consistency, and value-driven work, with the aim of supporting the demands of Affect’s aggressive growth in New York’s construction industry. She values building strong professional relationships and enjoys exchanging ideas and experiences, continuously broadening her perspective.

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Christopher Kennedy is an Assistant Superintendent with a strong background in residential construction, having worked on large-scale housing and apartment developments in both Ireland and the UK. He graduated from the University of Limerick with a degree in Construction Management and Engineering and has gained experience across site engineering, project management, and quality control.

In his previous roles, he has been responsible for coordinating trades, managing finishes, overseeing compliance, and maintaining project timelines. He has also worked closely with architects, engineers, and clients to ensure clear communication and smooth delivery at every stage of construction.

Detail-oriented and collaborative, Christopher takes pride in building strong teams on site and delivering projects efficiently and to a high standard of workmanship.

Oisin Kelly is an Assistant Superintendent with a background in renewable energy and large-scale infrastructure projects. Oisin holds both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Energy Systems Engineering from University of Galway and has experience in site engineering, quality control, and stakeholder coordination. He contributed to feasibility studies, technical reports, and on-site construction oversight for major projects.

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Analytical and collaborative, Oisin brings a strong technical foundation and a solutions-focused approach to his role at Affect, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently, safely, and to the highest standard.

Grant Gagnier is an Advisory Board Member of Affect Group and distinguished leader in the construction industry.

With over 30 years of experience guiding some of the most respected construction firms across the U.S., Grant is a high-impact, results-driven executive who brings a powerful combination of strategic insight, operational discipline, and leadership development expertise. From spearheading $1B+business units to advising on transformational real estate developments, Grant has a track record of driving results and doing it with integrity. Grant has deep expertise in complex project delivery, risk management, and operational excellence combined with a proven ability to translate strategic vision into disciplined execution, optimize effiiciency, and integrate continous improvement processes.

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