Name: David Bonderman;

Occupation: Lawyer turned toptier financial wheeler and dealer. His investment vehicle, Texas Pacific Group transformed Continental Airlines from bankruptcy into the US's fifth largest carrier.

Irish interests: He holds a 25 per cent shareholding of Ryanair and is chairman of the company.

Other interests: Rock and roll, the Rolling Stones, nature and a low public profile.

Why in the news: Continental is to operate daily flights between Ireland and the US next year.