James Kennedy named HSI interim chief

James Kennedy is to take over as interim CEO of Horse Sport Ireland to allow current CEO Damian McDonald prepare for his new role as director general of the IFA.

Professor Pat Wall, chairman of Horse Sport Ireland, said: “I wish to thank James Kennedy for stepping into the breach as interim chief executive of our organisation. He brings a wealth of experience at the top levels in business, sport, agriculture and voluntary organisations and I look forward to continuing to work closely with him in this interim role.”

Mr Kennedy will take up his position as HSI’s interim CEO from December 29. He has served as chairman of HSI’s finance committee since March 2013 and chair of the Show Jumping High Performance committee since April 2016. He is a former vice president of European Operations with eye care firm Bausch & Lomb, and CEO of professional services firm Thomas McDonogh & Sons.