Chair of Laing O’Rourke appears on promotional video for Irish business agency

Ray O’Rourke has appeared in a rare TV interview for Irish business agency Enterprise Ireland.

In the video the chair of Laing O’Rourke tells ex-RIBA president Angela Brady how he progressed from a pony boy working for contractor Murphy’s on the construction of the Victoria line in London to head one of the UK’s biggest contractors.

In the video O’Rourke says it was “daunting” taking on the Laing business in 2001.

He adds: “Fear of failure is good because it drives you on and encourages people to come with you on the trip.”

The video also includes appearances from Howard Shiplee, construction director at the Olympic Delivery Authority, and Graham Stirk, senior director at architect Rogers Stirk Harbour and Partners.

Ray O'Rourke for Enerprise Ireland