Blog Feature: Brendan Brophy, from Junior PM to Operations Manager

When Brendan Brophy joined KTL in October 2016 as a Junior Project Manager, he wasn’t entirely sure what lay ahead. What he did know, however, was that he wanted to work in Project Management—and KTL presented the opportunity he had been searching for.

Fresh from completing a master’s in project management, Brendan entered the Telecoms Division at a time of rapid transformation, supporting one of Ireland’s leading network operators with their 4G rollout. Though new to the industry, Brendan immersed himself in the fast-paced world of survey and build activities. In less than a year, his dedication and aptitude were recognised when he stepped into the role of Programme Manager—overseeing nine work streams and managing the day-to-day operations of field staff across a growing telecoms portfolio.

For almost six years, Brendan quietly but confidently contributed to the success of projects, building deep relationships and understanding the operational rhythm of KTL. Then came another career pivot—into Procurement Management. It was a shift away from boots-on-the-ground operations to the financial and commercial backbone of the business, as he began managing supplier relationships and working with KTL's UK Operations.

At every stage of transition, Brendan embraced continuous learning, “I take something from every role that helps me in the next one,” he reflects. That mindset—of learning, of listening, of always building—defines his current post as Operations Manager in the Power Division.

It’s a role that sits at the heart of KTL’s mission, especially as it partners with ESB Networks to support Ireland’s Net Zero targets. Whether it’s upskilling staff into Person In Charge of Work (PICW) roles or integrating overseas workers into long-standing teams, Brendan ensures the division stays operationally aligned and ready for growth.

The journey from Telecoms to Power wasn’t unfamiliar territory. Brendan had worked with the Power team years prior, tracking daily resource activity. His dual-division knowledge, combined with his short but impactful stint in procurement, gives him a nice 360° view of the business. “Every decision we make has a consequence—financial or operational. My job is to find the middle ground so both can move forward.”

When asked what motivates him most, Brendan speaks of KTL’s future with confidence. The growth, the new frameworks, the influx of talent—particularly those joining through internal referrals—points to a culture that people believe in. That’s something he’s proud of.

Reflecting on challenges, Brendan recalls KTL's pandemic response as the most defining. “We had to rethink everything to keep people safe on-site,” he says. It was a time that tested systems and people—but also proved the strength of unity.

For those just starting their journey, Brendan offers this advice: “Embrace the challenge. You might not know everything on day one—but lean in, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to reach out.”

Nine years into his journey, Brendan is only getting started—and his path so far has been impactful and impressive.

To find out more about KTL careers visit ktl.ie/careers