

Business
Karen Ronan appointed new Galway Chamber CEO following her 22 years with Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau
Karen Ronan will officially take up her role as Galway Chamber CEO at the end of April 2025
Galway Chamber has announced the appointment of Karen Ronan as new Chief Executive Officer

Karen Ronan will officially take up her role as Galway Chamber CEO at the end of April 2025, bringing with her a wealth of experience in regional development, economic growth, and strategic leadership.
Karen is a dynamic and highly regarded leader with a proven track record in business and sports tourism, stakeholder engagement, and economic development. She has played a pivotal role in driving national and regional strategies, with a strong focus on ESG and sustainable work practices. Her extensive background in project management and governance has helped foster valuable business networks at local, national, and international levels.
Commenting on her appointment, Karen Ronan said, “I am honoured to take on the role of CEO at Galway Chamber, and I am looking forward to working with the Chamber team, our members, and strategic partners to drive growth, innovation, and opportunity for Galway. Galway is a dynamic and ambitious city and county, and the Chamber plays a critical role in shaping its future. I am excited to build on the strong foundations, to collaborate, and work hard to ensure Galway continues to thrive as a premier location for enterprise, innovation, and knowledge sharing.”
Cáit Noone, President of Galway Chamber, welcomed Karen’s appointment, stating, “Karen brings a wealth of experience and a strategic vision that will be invaluable in driving the Chamber’s mission forward. Her leadership, combined with her dedication to fostering economic growth and innovation, will help position Galway as a hub for business excellence. We are excited to welcome her and look forward to working together to support our members and the wider business community.”
The Board of Galway Chamber warmly welcomes Karen and is eager to collaborate with her as she leads the development of Galway Chamber’s strategic vision, strengthens its advocacy efforts, and cultivates a thriving business environment.
Making the announcement on LinkedIn, Karen noted, “I want to acknowledge what has been an incredible 22 years leading business and sports tourism in the Midwest for Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau and Fáilte Ireland.
“The collaborations, connections and friendships across the public, private and education sectors have been invaluable over the last two decades. We have collectively achieved so much and I’m incredibly proud of that.”
Karen takes up her new post on April 28, saying she looks “forward to working with the chamber team and board to build on the strong foundations already in place”.
Pictures: Olena Oleksienko/ilovelimerick