DCU Alumni Awardee Billy Hann

Billy Hann is a seasoned leader in the transportation sector, with over three decades of experience. He began his career in 1994 at the Irish Aviation Authority, providing engineering support for Air Traffic Control. Over his 29 years, Billy advanced through several management roles, culminating as the Director of ATM Operations and Strategy.

In this role, Billy was responsible for overseeing Ireland’s air traffic management operations, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of 451,000 km² of airspace—a critical gateway for transatlantic aviation. He also played a key role in the development of the iconic new control tower at Dublin Airport, Ireland’s tallest inhabited building, standing at 86.9 meters.

In December 2022, Billy redirected his focus from the Irish skyline to the streets of Dublin when he was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Dublin Bus. Now behind wheel of Ireland’s largest public transport provider, he leads a team of over 4,200 people who proudly deliver a safe, reliable, high-quality bus service to over 480,000 customers daily across the Greater Dublin Area. 

Billy has been steering the Dublin Bus during period of growth and transformation for both the company and city. In his two years at Dublin Bus, he has introduced a new corporate strategy, established a new Executive Team, and overseen one of the largest and most successful recruitment drives in the company’s history, hiring over 1,000 drivers. During his leadership, customer numbers have reached a record-high of 159 million journeys in 2024, the most in the company’s almost 40-year history.

MSc Operations, 1997