Declan Sharkey

Declan is a Global Director and Senior Principal at Populous, serving on both the Global Holdings Board of Directors and the EMEA Board. Additionally, he is the General Manager for Populous Italia, Populous España and Populous Deutschland. In 2017, Declan was recognised as a RIBA Rising Star, and in 2019, he became the youngest Senior Principal at Populous.

Currently, Declan is leading several high-profile projects, including multiple stadiums in Italy, the MUCcc Arena in Munich, Germany, Cardiff Arena in the UK and the Cork Events Centre in Ireland. His most recent completed project, the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester, stands as the largest indoor arena in the UK and the most sustainable in Europe.

Throughout his career, Declan has contributed to a diverse global portfolio, working on performance and entertainment venues across Italy, Finland, Spain, Denmark and Ireland. He has also played a key role in developing large sports masterplans in the UK, India and China. Beyond his architectural contributions, Declan is a driving force behind Populous’ business development for new arenas and elite training facilities in the EMEA region.

Declan is deeply committed to sustainability, focusing on creating environmentally responsible solutions for mass audience venues worldwide. He leads strategic sustainability initiatives at Populous, promoting health and wellness across all projects, as well as in the company’s culture and working practices.