Mayo business leader Maureen Walsh appointed Ibec president
DeCare Managing Director Maureen Walsh, whose family has deep roots in Claremorris, has been appointed President of Ibec for 2026-27.
A Mayo woman has been appointed President of Ibec for 2026-27. Maureen Walsh, who is the Managing Director of Claremorris-based DeCare, succeeds Dr Colin Hunt, Chief Executive Officer of AIB.
Speaking on her appointment, Maureen said it was a privilege to lead Ibec and represent Irish business.
“Operating from the West of Ireland, I know that the Irish economic success story is not one just confined to our major cities but one that touches towns and villages throughout the country.
“When it comes to regional development, we must keep Ireland's momentum up through expanding our infrastructure - from housing and energy to transport and digital connectivity - all of which will be key to enabling our continued growth,” she said.
She further spoke of the deep connection she has to Mayo.
“My father, Michael, was born and raised in Claremorris and played for the Mayo football team before emigrating. I moved to Claremorris as an expat on what was intended to be a two-year assignment to establish DeCare’s Irish operations.
“Having recruited our first 18 staff in Claremorris in 1999, many of whom are still with us today, I have seen first-hand how regional Ireland can serve as a world-class base for global service, innovation, and growth," she concluded.
Galway native and Ibec CEO Danny McCoy expressed his delight at the announcement of Maureen as president.
“Maureen’s remarkable track record as an entrepreneur and business leader, alongside her deep commitment to regional enterprise and development, gives her an exceptional perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing Irish businesses today.
“Maureen’s deep roots in the local community include previously serving as a member of the Governing Body of GMIT (now Atlantic Technological University), sitting on the Local Enterprise Evaluations and Appeals Committee, and her role as a former Chairperson of the Mayo Cancer Support Association.” he concluded.