John Murnane

Founder & CEO

“You get into the middle of it, you roll up your sleeves, and you get it done, whether it’s a Tuesday morning or a Saturday evening.”

Founder and CEO John Murnane embodies the “whatever it takes” spirit that informs everything Erin Construction does. After studying metalwork and woodwork at Scariff Technical School in County Clare, Ireland, John emigrated to the United States at age 19 in search of a better future. He worked as a carpenter for several well-known construction firms before founding Erin Construction in 1991 to fulfill a lifelong dream of working for himself and creating jobs for others.

Underlying John’s career in construction is a deep commitment to helping others. By taking something unusable and creating something with a purpose, John sees the difference his work makes in providing homes, health care, and school spaces for people in need. He is deeply involved in each project, serving as the technical advisor on every Erin Construction project and attending many client meetings and site visits. This involvement allows John to better understand both the client and the ultimate occupants, which in turn results in a superior product.

Described by long-time clients as determined, loyal, and never afraid of a challenge, John takes seriously his responsibility as a civic partner. He believes in building not only physical spaces, but communities that provide a better life for all. Along with spearheading corporate involvement, John personally supports several non-profit housing organizations in the United States and charitable efforts in Ireland too.

John lives in Garden City, New York with his wife and 5 children, to whom he credits his professional and personal success.