Our Leadership Team
Michael Lantry
CEO
Michael leads our Division responsible for placing software engineers into some of the best Saas companies in Ireland. Michael has been with GemPool since 2012 and sits on the Board. His team are expert headhunters focused on sourcing and placing contract and permanent software engineering professionals, with particular expertise in cloud technologies.
Michael also loves to share his expert knowledge on the trends he spots across the IT Market in Ireland. If you would like to know more on the top skills in demand, leadership trends or in general talent insights, head over to his Blogs.
If you would like to discuss partnering with us for your hiring needs you can also send him a message, and he will get in touch with you.
Namratha Ambat
Senior Marketing Manager
Hi, I’m Namratha/Nam. As the Senior Marketing Manager at GemPool, my main job is keeping you in the loop. Whether you’re a candidate looking for your next move or a tech company trying to scale, I’m here to make sure you have the latest market insights and recruitment trends right when you need them.
Outside of data and marketing, I’m really passionate about working on our Women in Tech initiative. We’re focused on supporting women in Ireland looking to switch careers, level up, or get back into the tech space after a break. If that sounds like something you need, learn more about our initiative here.
Cathal McAliskey
Director
Cathal McAliskey joined GemPool in October 2018 and now leads as our Recruitment Delivery Director. In this role, he partners with IT clients to connect them with top tech talent, helping businesses scale and achieve their goals. Cathal also takes great pride in supporting his extensive network of candidates, guiding them through every stage of their career journey. Since moving into tech recruitment over seven years ago, he has built a reputation for his deep market knowledge, strategic approach, and genuine passion for connecting people with opportunities that fit.
In 2021, he was recognised as the ERF Recruitment Consultant of the Year – Contract, a testament to his dedication and expertise. Outside of work, Cathal is an avid sports fan, especially when it comes to GAA and soccer.
Whether you’re looking for your next tech role or need support in building out your team, Cathal’s insights and experience can make a real difference. Check out his blogs for more market updates, or get in touch today to start working with him.
Sean Whelan
Senior IT Recruitment Consultant
Sean joined the GemPool team in May 2021 and mainly works on backend roles that consist of Java Developers and Software Engineers, maintaining a close relationship and providing excellent service across both departments is one of Sean’s main priorities.
Sean came from the retail industry where he was a General Manager of a popular mobile phone provider company, he has vast experience in customer service and good knowledge of the tech industry which he puts to good use while recruiting talented professionals within the Irish tech market.
Outside of work, Sean is part of a soccer team that he plays with on the weekends, as well as being a big Liverpool fan. A great sportsman and a talented recruiter. So if you’re looking for new career opportunities within backend roles, get in touch with Sean!
If you’re still just looking to gather some job market insights in this area, he has also written several blogs that will help guide you to the perfect role.
Tanisha Barkakaty
Senior IT Recruitment Consultant
Hi, I’m Tanisha. I joined GemPool in October 2021 and have loved being part of the team ever since. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to recruit across different areas of technology, and today I specialise in permanent and contract recruitment across Ireland’s technology sector, supporting clients and candidates across Software Engineering, Cloud & DevOps, Product & Digital, Project Delivery, and Data Centre Operations.
What I enjoy most about recruitment is the people and the stories behind every conversation. Every candidate has a unique journey, and every client has a story behind their team, goals, and challenges. I genuinely enjoy taking the time to understand what matters most to both, helping candidates find opportunities where they can grow while supporting clients in building teams that can make a real impact.
Alongside recruitment, I’m passionate about sharing market insights, interview guidance, and industry knowledge to help candidates and clients make informed decisions. My background in Sociology, including a double Master’s degree, has given me a deeper understanding of people, behaviours, and the importance of meaningful conversations. This perspective continues to shape the way I build relationships with candidates and clients and approach recruitment every day.
Premika Patil
Sourcer
Premika is a Recruitment Sourcer at GemPool, having joined the team in April 2025. She brings over two years of experience in life science recruitment and is now focused on sourcing top contractor talent for data centre roles, including data centre technicians.
She holds two Master’s degrees in Psychology, which give her a strong foundation in understanding people and their motivations. This people-first approach helps her build meaningful connections and ensure the right fit between candidates and clients.
Outside of work, Premika enjoys watching cricket and is a proud chicken biryani enthusiast. Known for her approachable nature and market awareness, she’s always open to connecting and sharing insights into the recruitment industry.