Former Limerick Chamber President Donnacha Hurley has been appointed CEO of the business representative body.
He takes over the role from Michelle Gallagher who departed last month after 18 months in the position.
Hurley most recently served as General Manager of the Absolute Hotel in Limerick, a role he held for the past 17 years.
A long-standing contributor to Limerick Chamber, he previously served on its board, chaired the policy committee, and held the role of President in 2021/2022.
In a statement, the Chamber said he brings first-hand insight into the challenges and opportunities facing enterprises across the region, having operated a business in Limerick city centre for almost two decades.
He is also active in a number of non-executive roles in the Mid-West, including as a board member of Discover Limerick DAC, the wholly owned subsidiary of Limerick City and County Council; and Market Trustee with Limerick Market Trustees.
In his new role, Hurley will focus on delivering the Chamber’s strategic priorities, strengthening its advocacy on behalf of members, and supporting a business environment that enables local traders, SMEs and larger enterprises to thrive and grow.
“It is a privilege to take on the role of CEO at Limerick Chamber at such an important time for the region. Our businesses are ambitious, innovative and ready to grow, and the Chamber must match that energy with strong advocacy and practical support,” he said.
“I am looking forward to working closely with our members and team to drive investment, strengthen our competitiveness, and ensure Limerick continues to thrive as a place to do business.”
Limerick Chamber President Mairead Connolly welcomed the appointment, saying, “Donnacha combines deep local knowledge with proven leadership and a clear strategic mindset. He understands the needs of businesses on the ground and has the credibility and experience to represent them at every level. The Board is confident he will provide strong, focused leadership as the Chamber enters its next phase.”
Donnacha holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Limerick; a Strategic Hospitality Management qualification from Cornell University; and an MSc in Hospitality Management from Technological University Dublin. He also holds a Diploma in Hotel Management and an NCEA Diploma in Business Studies from Shannon College of Hotel Management; as well as a Certificate in Environmental Sustainability in the Workplace from Dublin and Dún Laoghaire Education and Training Board.
