The Irish Exporters Association has appointed Nicola Byrne as its new president.
Nicola Byrne is the founder of a number of businesses including 11890 Directory Inquiries, Cloud90 and RiskEye.
She takes over the IEA Presidency from Paschal McCarthy who has served as IEA President since January 2016 and is the organisation's first female president since its establishment in 1951.
Ms Byrne said that being IEA president during this year of Brexit is "challenging".
"The association will need to offer our members and the Government our fullest support and best advice - as well as opening doors and minds among our clients and colleagues across Europe. This year, of all years, the association must defend our country's economic life's blood," she stated.
Commenting on the appointment, IEA chief executive Simon McKeever said Ms Byrne's experience in founding and developing her own businesses puts her at the forefront of exporting and entrepreneurship.
"Nicola has a wealth of international experience seizing business opportunities, overcoming barriers and developing contacts. Nicola's dedication and support on the council to date has been considerable and we look forward to working with her as she goes from strength to strength, shaping the organisation’s future in her presidency," Mr McKeever added.
