In 2019, Building Envelope Technologies (BET), a well-established Irish firm specialising in building performance testing and compliance services, became the fourth company to join Phenna Group. Brian Shannon, then Managing Director of BET, led the business through its acquisition journey and is now Divisional MD for the UK/IRE/ME Built Environment Division at Phenna.
For Brian, the decision to join Phenna Group wasn’t about stepping back; it was about stepping up. “The biggest attraction was the Phenna Group model,” Brian shares. “They supported business leaders staying on, who wanted innovation and growth - provided capex for this, and crucially, allowed me and my team autonomy to continue leading the business as we saw fit.”
About BET
Building Envelope Technologies proudly stands as Ireland’s leading specialists in building performance testing and certification, providing Airtightness testing, Façade product testing and compliance, and Building performance pre-construction compliance calculations.
BET was the first company in Ireland and remains the only company to achieve ISO 17025 accreditation for multidisciplinary building façade and building component performance testing, which includes Airtightness Testing and Weather Performance Testing of building envelopes.
Their services include:
Air Tightness Testing
Acoustic Testing
CWCT Façade Testing
Windows & Doors Testing
Wind Resistance Testing
Impact Testing
Thermal Modelling
Domestic and Non- Domestic Building Energy Rating
CPD Training
Starting the Conversation
The acquisition discussions were initiated by a broker, who arranged an initial meeting with Paul Barry in Dublin. Brian was immediately struck by the contrast between Phenna Group's approach and other potential suitors.
Brian felt that Phenna's model was different, no unnecessary interference, just support where it mattered. That hands-off philosophy, combined with a focus on strong relationships, sealed the deal.
Seamless Transition, Strong Support
BET's core structure remained steadfastly unchanged after the acquisition. Key staff were retained, the brand name was maintained, and operations continued to be under the control of the local management team.
"There were no major changes initially. When financial reporting timelines and formats did shift, Phenna Group worked closely with our finance director to ease the transition."
The group's support functions, including HR, finance, legal, and marketing, proved instrumental. BET received capital expenditure backing to build a state-of-the-art facility in County Wexford, significantly enhancing its operational capacity.
Clients and staff responded positively to the acquisition, perceiving the partnership as a vote of confidence from a respected international group, which further solidified their trust in BET.
Entering New Markets
One of the most notable benefits of joining Phenna Group was the ability to enter new markets.
With strategic support, BET expanded into the UK through the acquisition of Buildcheck.
Business Growth and Professional Development
Under Phenna Group, BET’s EBITDA grew by an impressive 300%. Brian’s own career trajectory also evolved, from running a successful SME to now leading the Built Environment division across the group.
“It was the best decision I made both personally and professionally. I was able to stay focused on growing the business, with the reassurance of group-level support behind me, and I had direct access to the CEO, which was invaluable in supporting my growth.”
A New Chapter with Familiar Leadership
As Brian transitioned into a group leadership role as Divisional MD, Built Environment at Phenna Group, the leadership baton at BET was passed internally, a deliberate and strategic move.
Tommy Morris, who had served as Operations Director at BET for nearly seven years, was promoted to Managing Director in May 2021. This internal promotion not only ensured continuity in leadership but also demonstrated the shared commitment of Phenna Group and BET to career development.
Tommy's deep understanding of BET's operations, culture, and values made him a natural choice to lead the business into its next phase of growth.
"By promoting from within, we ensured that the leadership team continued to reflect the same ethos and ambition that shaped BET's early success. This was very important to me", Brian notes.
Driving Success Across the Group
In his role as Divisional MD of the Built Environment division in UK/IRE/ME, Brian now oversees a portfolio of 16 businesses spanning the UK, Ireland, and the Middle East. His day-to-day focus is on working closely with the Managing Directors of each company, supporting them to grow their businesses, realise their potential, and navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with being part of a wider group.
Brian plays a key role in helping newly acquired companies integrate into the Phenna Group structure, fostering collaboration and encouraging cross-selling opportunities between businesses. His passion for seeing others succeed is evident in the energy he brings to the role.
"I genuinely love what I do, I can genuinely say this was the best decision I ever made personally and professionally, working with experienced, brilliant leaders and helping great businesses unlock their next stage of growth within Phenna Group's wider family is extremely rewarding", Brian reflects.
Beyond his divisional responsibilities, Brian collaborates with the five other Regional and Divisional MDs across the group. Together, they support Phenna Group's broader strategy, growth ambitions, and culture of operational excellence, ensuring a consistent and successful approach across the entire organisation.
Brian Shannon
Divsional MD, Built Environment
Reflections for Future Partners
Looking back, Brian offers a clear message to other business owners considering joining Phenna Group.
"You keep your autonomy, but gain the backing of a much larger group team. Transparency and honesty are key attributes within Phenna's supportive team. The value of shared resources and knowledge, especially in legal, finance, HR and marketing, cannot be overstated."