Donegal appoints new chief executive
He replaces John Keon, who will retire from the position with effect from December 31, 2004.
Mr Ireland worked with the Kerry Group for over 20 years, spending the last 12 in Britain. He has held a number of senior positions in Kerry Foods in sales, purchasing and general management. His recent responsibilities have been as Managing Director of the Speciality Poultry and Food service Divisions based in Britain.
Mr Ireland graduated from UCC in 1984 with an honours degree in Food Business, and also holds an MBA. Donegal Creameries chairman, Lexie Tinney, said the company was delighted to secure a chief executive with the experience and proven talent of Mr Ireland.
“He will strategically strengthen the company’s capabilities through his strong track record in export-led marketing and customer innovation in the food sector,” he said.
“His leadership credentials and management qualities will be important assets in profitably developing the company’s growing portfolio of businesses into the future.
“On behalf of my colleagues on the board, I wish to sincerely thank our outgoing chief executive, Mr John Keon, for his invaluable contribution to Donegal over the years.”
Donegal Creameries PLC is one of Ireland’s leading food and business companies, exporting products worldwide. The company has a tradition of servicing the agricultural community through its business units in the Republic and the North, England and Scotland.
Founded in Letterkenny in 1970, the original co-operative society listed on the Irish exchange in 1989. Today, it has an annual turnover of over €130 million and employs over 250 people.
