International agri-services group Origin Enterprises has appointed John Hennessy as an independent non-executive Director and Chair-Designate, effective from January 1, 2026.
Mr Henessy will succeed Origin's current Chair Gary Britton, who will retire at the beginning of March, after serving as a non-executive Director for ten years, including three years as non-executive Chair.
Today's appointment follows a rigorous recruitment process led by the Nominations Committee and Senior Independent Director.
Most recently Mr Hennessy served as Chair of Dalata Hotel Group, since its IPO in 2014, overseeing the significant expansion of the business in Ireland, the UK and Continental Europe. He also chaired CPL Resources and served as an independent non-executive Director at H&K International.
Mr Hennessy also has legal and financial expertise from his time as a Senior Counsel at the Bar of Ireland, specialising in commercial law and taxation, and as a Partner at Arthur Andersen, where he led forensic accounting and advisory services.
He holds a BA in Mathematics from Trinity College Dublin and a Barrister-at-Law degree from King's Inns. He is a Fellow of several professional bodies including Chartered Accountants Ireland and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, and an accredited mediator with CEDR.
Sean Coyle, Origin's Group CEO, said he sincerely thanked Gary Britton for his outstanding leadership, guidance and dedication during his tenure on the Board.
"His strategic foresight and steadfast commitment to Origin have been instrumental in shaping the group's direction and success, and we wish him all the very best for the future," he said.
"John's appointment as Chair Designate of the Board marks an exciting new chapter for Origin. He brings a wealth of experience, and I am confident that his stewardship will be instrumental in guiding the Board as we execute the next phase of our growth strategy," the CEO added.
Origin chair Gary Britton said he had worked alongside a dedicated and talented group of directors, current and former, and an outstanding leadership team who have demonstrated their commitment to Origin.
"Over the past decade, we have navigated change, embraced new opportunities and remained focused on delivering our strategic vision. I want to extend my sincere thanks to all those I have had the pleasure of working with during my tenure," he added.
John Hennessy, Chair Designate, said he looked forward to joining Origin and working collaboratively with his fellow board members, the executive team, and all stakeholders to build on the strong foundations already in place and to continue to deliver long-term value for our shareholders.
"Origin is a dynamic business, with a strategy focused on optimising sustainable land use and it is a privilege to join an exceptional team with such commitment to this vision and ambition for the future," he added.
