Incoming Glanbia chairman predicts bright future

Henry Corbally’s appointment as chairman of the Glanbia plc board has been well received by the agri-food sector.

Mr Corbally succeeds Liam Herlihy who was chairman for the past seven years. The Co Meath-based dairy farmer has also been named as chairman of Glanbia Co-op Society Ltd and Glanbia Ingredients Ireland Ltd. He was previously plc vice-chairman.

Patrick Murphy has been named as one of two incoming vice-chairmen of Glanbia plc, succeeding Mr Corbally; he is also co-op vice-chair. The other vice-chairman is Martin Keane who continues in that role.

“I hope to play my part in building on the great foundations that have been laid down by all those who have had the vision to make Glanbia into the world class organisation it is today,” said Mr Corbally.

“I would like to pay tribute to Liam Herlihy, who has served on the board with great distinction for the last 18 years and as chairman for the last seven. Glanbia has grown from strength to strength in recent years.

“I look forward to working to ensure that the organisation continues to deliver for all our shareholders and stakeholders.”

The plc board has also appointed Patsy Ahern, Jim Gilsenan and Patrick Hogan as new non-executive directors as nominees of Glanbia Coop. They have also joined the board of Glanbia Ingredients Ireland Ltd.

IFA president Eddie Downey congratulated Glanbia on making a very influential and responsible appointment as the dairy sector faces into an era of major opportunities and challenges. He also wished Pat Murphy well as vice-chairman.

IFA dairy chairman, Sean O’Leary, said: “I look forward to working with both men in the post-quota era. Glanbia is our largest milk purchaser, and has broad relevance for all dairy farmers in Ireland.

"I have no doubt that Henry will provide strong leadership in Glanbia, and I look forward to meeting him very soon.”