Meet some Strategic Advisers - Leo McKenna

“Joining the SIB gave me an opportunity to use my business acumen in a social context.”

What were your key motivations to join the SIB?

I have a strong social ethos, so my desire was to do something that would directly improve the quality of life for the people of Northern Ireland. Joining the SIB gave me an opportunity to use my business acumen in a social context.

What influence have you had since you joined?

Externally I have been working with the Department of Health where I have helped shape investment plans and deliver large scale infrastructure programmes more efficiently. Internally I feel I bring some sense of clarity and direction.

What are the key challenges for you to tackle over the next 12 months?

From a project point of view, the challenge is to reach financial close on the Enniskillen Hospital. This is the first PFI hospital ever in Northern Ireland and the single largest transaction in the history of the country’s health sector. We’re currently at the stage where we have three bidders. The next step is to select our preferred consortium, then work with them to get the contract agreed. For me that means an awful lot of negotiations. The SIB works as a bridge between the public and private sectors. Without us acting as the middle man, there would be more chance of impasse. For instance, the whole project could stall simply because two sets of legal advisers start arguing over minutiae. Our job is to maintain the momentum, keep everyone focused on delivery and ensure key milestones are met.

In the New Year, I’ll also be starting procurement on the Omagh Hospital. Another large PFI initiative that will run concurrently with Enniskillen. It will be interesting to apply what we’ve learnt – improve on the good initiatives and ideas, and address where things didn’t go quite so well.

How would you describe the culture within SIB?

It’s a hugely positive team environment where people are very willing to support each other. And with the sort of individuals who work here, it’s also good fun.

What was your background before you joined?

My experience has been primarily in international capital projects. Prior to joining the SIB, I was with PWC in London working in the area of performance improvement.