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Billionaire Profile
Eugene Murtagh
Global Rank
#1518

Image: Kmurrevive | CC BY-SA 4.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Eugene Murtagh

CEO, Building materials
IRELAND
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.736B
Estimated based on Building materials stock value as of March 6, 2026
-1.7% (24h)
Age
83
Source
Building materials
Industry
Service
Citizenship
IRELAND

Biography

Eugene Murtagh, born in 1942, is an Irish billionaire and the founder of Kingspan Group, a leading manufacturer of building materials. His net worth is estimated at $2.8 billion as of 2024. Murtagh's wealth stems from his pioneering work in the building materials industry, particularly in insulation and building envelope solutions. His career began in the 1960s, starting a business making trailers with his wife. He founded Kingspan in 1971, which has grown into a global leader. Murtagh served as CEO until 2005, and as chairman until 2021, and has been recognized for his contributions to the construction sector.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Eugene Murtagh was born on June 23, 1942, in Kingscourt, County Cavan, Ireland. Growing up in a rural town, he developed a strong work ethic. In the early 1960s, he started a business making trailers with his wife Andrea Carolan.

Rise to Success

In 1971, Murtagh founded Kingspan, a building materials manufacturer. Under his leadership, the company expanded significantly, becoming a global player in the building materials industry. The company went public in 1989. Murtagh served as CEO until 2005, when his son, Gene Murtagh, took over. He remained as chairman until 2021. Kingspan has grown through acquisitions and has 212 manufacturing facilities in approximately 80 countries.

Key Business Strategies

Kingspan's growth strategy included strategic acquisitions, innovation, and expansion into international markets. The company focused on high-performance building solutions. The company's revenue reached over $8 billion in 2022.

Philanthropy

Eugene Murtagh is actively involved in philanthropic activities and supports various charitable causes.

Career Milestones

1960s

Trailer Business

Started a business making trailers with his wife, Andrea Carolan.

1971

Founded Kingspan

Founded Kingspan Group, a building materials manufacturer.

2005

Stepped Down as CEO

Stepped down as CEO of Kingspan, succeeded by his son Gene Murtagh.

2021

Stepped Down as Chairman

Stepped down as chairman of Kingspan.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Charity

Not available

Not available

Supports various charitable causes

Controversies & Challenges

2017

Share Sale

Sold shares worth €30 million.

2017

Grenfell Tower fire

Kingspan's insulation products were used in the Grenfell Tower fire, leading to scrutiny.

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