Philip Fitzsimons, the chief executive of insurer FBD died suddenly over the weekend, the company said.
Mr Fitzsimons, who was 60 and leaves a wife and five children, had headed Ireland's only listed insurance company since 2003. He had spent all his working life with the company.
'All in FBD know that Philip's contribution to the company has been outstanding,' Chairman Michael Berkery said in a statement.
'As chief executive since 2003 he led the company through a period of profitable growth. His wise and considerate counsel along with his energy and passion will be missed by all in the company,' he added.
Earlier this month, FBD said it had received a takeover approach from the Netherlands' biggest insurer Eureko.
FBD this morning said it had appointed Andrew Langford as its interim CEO. Mr. Langford has been group financial director with FBD since 2004.
