Homan O'Brien: Joining Forces with Black & White Engineering
Deal News | May 02, 2025 | EIN
Black & White Engineering, an international engineering design consultancy, has announced its acquisition of Homan O'Brien, an independent consulting engineering firm based in Ireland. This strategic move aims to bolster Black & White’s presence in the global data center and infrastructure sectors. Homan O'Brien, founded from the merger of Robert Jacob and Partners and Seamus Homan Associates, excels in mechanical and electrical engineering across sectors like data centers, healthcare, and education. This acquisition will establish a regional headquarters for Black & White in Dublin, strengthening ties with clients and enabling the company to deliver enhanced projects in Europe. With the support of investment group Waterland, this acquisition is part of Black & White’s ambitious growth strategy. The two companies will begin collaboration immediately, with future plans to expand operations in Ireland.
Sectors
- Engineering and Construction
- Investment and Private Equity
Geography
- Ireland – Homan O'Brien is based in Ireland, making it the geographical focus of this acquisition.
- Global – Black & White Engineering operates in 18 cities worldwide, reflecting the international scope of the company.
Industry
- Engineering and Construction – The acquisition pertains primarily to the engineering field, reflecting an expansion in technical and infrastructure services.
- Investment and Private Equity – Waterland's backing in the acquisition represents the role of private equity in facilitating corporate expansions.
Financials
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black & White Engineering | Acquiring Company | Company | A global engineering design consultancy expanding its presence in data centers and infrastructure sectors. |
| Homan O'Brien | Target Company | Company | An independent consulting engineering firm specializing in mechanical and electrical engineering in Ireland. |
| Waterland | Investment Group | Company | An independent investment group supporting Black & White Engineering's growth strategy. |
| Mick Cairns | CEO & Founder | People | CEO & Founder of Black & White Engineering. |
| Steven Horn | Managing Director Europe | People | Managing Director Europe at Black & White Engineering. |
| Simon O'Brien | Managing Director | People | Managing Director of Homan O'Brien. |
| Brian Homan | Joint Managing Director | People | Joint Managing Director at Homan O'Brien who is retiring in 2025. |
| Wendy McMillan | Partner at Waterland (UK) | People | Partner at Waterland involved in the investment support for Black & White Engineering. |