Galway Chamber Appoints Karen Ronan as New CEO

Galway, 31^st March 2025 – Galway Chamber is delighted to announce the appointment of Karen Ronan as its new Chief Executive Officer. Karen will officially take up her role 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.

Galway Chamber looks forward to a new era of leadership under Karen Ronan, strengthening its role as a catalyst for economic progress and business development in the region.

Note for Editor

About Galway Chamber

The Galway Chamber has been serving the Galway business community for 232 years. We currently represent  500 companies, which in turn employ more than 28,000 people across Galway City and County. As a privately constituted organisation, the Chamber works tirelessly to support businesses and drive the economic development of the region.

Our Vision: ‘Galway at the leading edge’

This vision reflects Galway’s commitment to excellence in all its endeavors—striving to be at the forefront of new developments and to be a leading location for business, innovation, and investment. It is an attitude and a way of thinking, intended to motivate and inspire the business community.

Our Mission: “Make Galway the leading location for business, investment, and people”

Galway Chamber’s activities include lobbying on behalf of businesses, fostering networking opportunities, supporting trade and investment, and providing critical business services such as export documentation, trade information, and business promotion. Our full-time staff and dedicated volunteers work to ensure that Galway remains a vibrant, innovative, and prosperous hub for business and enterprise.

For further information, please contact:

Elaine Murphy
Galway Chamber
elaine@galwaychamber.com
Phone: 091 563536