Aurivo appoints new CEO

JP McGrath, who was previously chief financial officer of Dairygold, succeeds Donal Tierney

JP McGrath is set to take up the role in late September.

JP McGrath has been appointed to the role of chief executive officer for Aurivo Co-operative by the co-op’s board.

Mr McGrath is set to take up the role in late September. He will be succeeding Donal Tierney, who will retire following a 15-year career with the co-op, including his seven years as chief executive.

Mr McGrath is an experienced senior executive with an extensive background in the food, agri-business, renewable energy and manufacturing sectors. He has held senior financial, commercial and operational leadership roles with Dairygold, Bord na Móna, Norbrook Laboratories and Aryzta.

His most recent role saw him serve as chief financial officer of Dairygold, where he helped develop the co-op’s longer-term strategic plans.

Previously, during five years as chief financial officer and chief operating officer of Bord na Móna, he played a central role in the transformation of the company from a peat-based business into a renewable energy organisation. He also held the position of chief financial officer at Norbrook Laboratories.

Mr McGrath’s early career saw him spend 11 years with Aryzta, where he held a number of senior leadership roles, including managing director of Aryzta Bakeries Europe and Asia Pacific, where he was based in Switzerland and had responsibility for a €1.1bn division operating across 14 countries.

Mr McGrath said: “I am honoured to have been appointed chief executive of Aurivo, a co-operative with a proud heritage, a clear commitment to its members and an important role in the communities it serves. 

"I look forward to working with the board, the leadership team, employees, members and customers to build on the strong foundations established under Donal’s leadership and to support the continued development and long-term success of the co-op.” 

Chair of Aurivo, Cathal Garvey, said: “On behalf of the board of Aurivo, I am delighted to welcome JP McGrath as our new chief executive. JP brings extensive leadership experience, together with a proven track record in business transformation, operational management, strategic development and financial performance.

"His broad experience across the food, agri-business and energy sectors will be of considerable value to Aurivo as we continue to develop the co-op and deliver for our members, employees, customers and communities.” 

“I would also like to take this opportunity, on behalf of the board, to thank Donal Tierney for his outstanding leadership, commitment and service to Aurivo over the past 15 years. 

"During his seven years as chief executive, Donal has led the organisation with integrity, dedication and a clear focus on the long-term interests of the co-op and its members. We wish Donal and his family every happiness for the future.”