The board of the Western Development Commission has appointed Allan Mulrooney as its new chief executive. He will take up the job from next month.
The Western Development Commission is the state agency responsible for the economic and social development of the West of Ireland.
A Sligo native, Mr Mulrooney has been acting as interim CEO at the WDC since last December after then CEO Tomás Ó Síocháin stepped down to take on a new position as CEO of Údarás na Gaeltachta.
Before taking over as interim CEO, Allan held the role of Head of Communications and Atlantic Economic Corridor Development at the WDC for over four years.
Before that he worked at IDA Ireland, which is tasked with growing and sustaining foreign direct investment in Ireland. He has also held several senior positions in private sector companies including the telecommunications sector and in public relations.
Gerry Finn, Chairperson of the WDC, said that Mr Mulrooney has a proven record of achievement within the organisation.
"One of his initial tasks will be to oversee the implementation and completion of the WDC strategy Work Smarter, Live Better' 2019-2024. Looking ahead to our next strategy, which Allan will oversee, the organisation will have a with increased focus on key issues for the region including offshore wind, transition to a low carbon economy and the further digitalisation of the region," he added.
Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys said the Western Development Commission plays a major role in the successful delivery of the Government's ambitious rural development policy.
"The WDC is supporting the regeneration of our rural towns and villages by deepening remote working infrastructure across rural Ireland. This work helps ensure that rural Ireland is a great place to live, work, run a business and raise a family," the Minister said.
