Stephen O’Hara to Step Down as Chairman of Elmhurst Energy
We would like to share with our wider community that Stephen O’Hara, Chairman of Elmhurst Energy, will be stepping down from his position at the end of June 2025.
Stephen has been the cornerstone of Elmhurst’s success, having spent 28+ years at the helm of the business, initially as Managing Director and later as Chairman. Throughout this time, he has provided outstanding leadership and strategic vision, guiding the organisation through decades of growth and change.
This decision will allow Stephen time to focus more fully on his other business interests and spend valuable time with his family.
Elmhurst owes a great deal to Stephen’s dedication and passion. His commitment has played a pivotal role in shaping who we are today. Under his leadership, the business has not only grown but also thrived, especially as part of the Phenna Group – a world-leading organisation in the Testing, Inspection, Certification and Compliance (TICC) sector.
We are proud to carry forward the legacy that Stephen leaves behind. His influence is deeply embedded in our culture, values, and ambitions, and we will continue to build on the strong foundations he has laid.
Humble Beginnings
Elmhurst was born from a pioneering idea by organic farmer and successful entrepreneur, Rod Pattison, who wanted to empower people to reduce their energy bills through a better understanding of building energy efficiency.
Amidst this emerging vision, a young graduate named Stephen O’Hara — Rod’s future son-in-law — joined the business in its infancy. Initially coming on board for just a two-week training stint, Stephen soon discovered a passion for the mission of Elmhurst. He decided to stay, taking on more responsibility over time and becoming a driving force behind the company’s development.
Over nearly three decades, Stephen transitioned from training support to Managing Director, and ultimately Chairman, helping shape the strategic direction of Elmhurst during its most formative years.
As Stephen steps down from his role, he reflects on his journey and the legacy he leaves behind:
“It’s been a long journey and one I have really enjoyed. Of course, there have been ups and downs following economic conditions, as well as many government initiatives and regulations which have come and gone. However, the role of energy efficiency in the built environment has never been so important. I am very proud of the team at Elmhurst and have no doubt they will continue to do excellent things. I want to thank all the current staff and previous colleagues, as well as our members, who have helped steer and contribute to the success of Elmhurst through the years; there are far too many to mention. I have dedicated my career to ensuring that Elmhurst is positioned as the leader in this sector and feel that the time is right to concentrate on my other businesses. I wish them all continued success. The business has been left in very capable hands with the current senior management team at Elmhurst and Phenna”
Paul Barry, Founder & Executive Chairman of Phenna Group, reflects on Stephen’s impact at Elmhurst:
“Stephen has truly been an inspirational leader at Elmhurst and a pleasure to work with inside the Phenna Group. Under his guidance, Elmhurst has consistently demonstrated exceptional values, professionalism, and leadership across the sector. I am delighted to have worked alongside Stephen for many years, and I know that he leaves Elmhurst in a strong position for continued success. On behalf of everyone at Phenna, I wish him every success in his future endeavours.”
Elmhurst’s Managing Director, Stuart Fairlie also shares his gratitude and vision for Elmhurst’s future:
“I want to personally thank Stephen for employing me over 25 years ago and for building Elmhurst into what it is today. The values of Elmhurst—independence, quality, innovation, professionalism, teamwork, respect, knowledge, and integrity—have all come from him. We will certainly continue the great work and mission that Stephen has left us with. I wish him all the luck with his new adventures.”
All of us at Elmhurst extend our heartfelt thanks to Stephen and wish him the very best for the future.