RTÉ has announced that Noel Curran, its former Head of Television, is to be its next Director General.
He is due to take up his position in Feburary 2011.
The vacancy was announced in July, after the decision by the current Director General Cathal Goan to step down after completing his full seven-year term
In a statement, Noel Curran said: 'I am absolutely delighted to be appointed Director General. RTÉ has a unique role and a unique responsibility in Irish life.
'It also has a unique relationship with its audience. Whatever challenges lie ahead, I hope to see that bond strengthened.'
Chairperson of the RTÉ Board, Tom Savage, said: 'This appointment follows an exceptionally intensive and exhaustive international recruitment process.
'Noel Curran honed his award-winning skills as a journalist first in print and then in broadcasting.
'He has produced both Current Affairs and Entertainment with distinction. He was Managing Director of Television through seven years of creative change.
'Noel has the editorial acumen, the cultural assurance, and the business flair to lead RTÉ into a new era of public service.
'In these especially challenging times, I am very pleased to announce his appointment and I wish Noel well as Director General.'
