Former head of PFH Paul Hourican appointed as chair of Cork firm Kwayga 

Former chair and CEO of PFH, Paul Hourican has been appointed New Executive Chairman at Kwayga. Images by Gerard McCarthy.

Founder and former chief executive of IT specialists, PFH Technology, Paul Hourican has been appointed as the new executive chairman of Cork-based supplier sourcing engine, Kwayga.

The firm, which was established in 2020, said the appointment marked its ongoing growth strategy, adding that Mr Hourican will "play a pivotal role" in guiding the company's overall governance and direction.

“We are really looking forward to Paul joining us and benefitting from his broad experience and knowledge and to working with him over the coming months and years," said Martin Fitzgerald, COO and co-founder of Kwayga. 

"His driving force of personality combined with his very structured approach will be a great support, and a good challenge to us as leadership on Kwayga’s growth journey."

Mr Hourican resigned from his role as chairman of PFH, following the firm's acquisition by Japanese imaging company, Ricoh for an undisclosed amount.

Founded in 1985, PFH employs over 750 employees across its headquarters in Cork and its Dublin and Galway offices.

Mr Hourican was also Chairman of a private property investment group and advised various businesses on strategy and acquisitions.

"I am honoured and excited to contribute my experience and leadership to guide the trajectory of this innovative company that is at the forefront of revolutionising the way European supermarket sourcing teams operate and by empowering them with Kwayga’s game-changing technology," said Mr Hourican. 

"I am confident in fostering a future marked by innovation and excellence."

Kwagya was founded by CEO, Mike McGrath and COO, Martin Fitzgerald. The firm specialises as a sourcing engine for supermarket buyers, helping them match with suppliers of private label and trending food & drinks products across Europe.

"We are thrilled to see Paul Hourican joining the Board as Executive Chairman, to share his expertise with the team to continuously further develop Kwayga’s exceptional technology which solves a key buyer’s pain point," said Michael Cantwell, a partner in The Redesdale Food & Beverage Fund that led Kwayga’s latest funding round.

"It will be a game changer in how suppliers are sourced in the supermarket sector.”