ISE appoints new chief executive

Irish Stock Exchange chairman David Kingston has today announced the appointment of Deirdre Somers as chief executive designate.

The appointment was ratified by the board of the Exchange at a meeting this morning, subject to regulatory approval.

Deirdre will succeed Tom Healy in the role on his retirement on June 30.

Ms Somers, 40, a chartered accountant, is currently director of listing at the Exchange, where she is responsible for all public listings including listings by companies, investment funds and specialist securities.

Mr Kingston, said that Somers had made an outstanding contribution to the success of the Exchange over the past seven years and that she would provide “dynamic, focused leadership”.

“The board is looking forward to working with Deirdre in the months and years ahead to build on the success achieved to date and to ensure the continuity of the Irish Exchange as a key part of the financial services infrastructure in this country,” he said.

Ms Somers said she was honoured to have been selected for the post.

“There are challenges ahead but there are also tremendous opportunities,” she said. “It’s a very exciting time to be taking the helm in this industry.

“I’m very much looking forward to this new role and to working closely with the board and with all my colleagues in the Exchange to ensure our continued success.”