Horse Sport Ireland Names Ronan Murphy as New Chief

Ronan Murphy has been named the new chief executive of Horse Sport Ireland, the national governing body of equestrian sports in Ireland. Murphy will replace outgoing CEO Damian McDonald and is expected to take up the position by the end of August.

Horse Sport Ireland is responsible for maintaining the Irish Draught and Irish Sport Horse Studbook, issuing horse passports, co-ordinating education and high performance programs, overseeing the relationship between equine sports stakeholders and marketing the Irish equine industry around the world.

McDonald held the position of CEO from the foundation of the organisation in 2006 until December 2016. James Kennedy is currently acting as interim CEO. Murphy joins Horse Sport Ireland from agricultural technology company, Makeway Limited where he was head of commercial development. He brings years of equine experience to his new position having been chief executive of Weatherbys Ireland, which is the keeper of the General Stud Book for Ireland.

“It’s a privilege to be joining the team at Horse Sport Ireland at this exciting and strategically important time for the Irish Sport Horse industry,” commented Murphy.

“I am looking forward to working closely with all our stakeholders to deliver our strategic plans, build a sustainable industry and to ensure the continued success of the Irish Sport Horse sector around the world.”

Horse Sport Ireland chairman Jim Beecher welcomed Murphy to the team, saying: “I am delighted to welcome Ronan to the dedicated team in Horse Sport Ireland. Ronan brings with him a wealth of experience from the equine and agriculture industry, he is a proven leader and is the right person to bring the organisation forward.”

At the same time, he thanked James Kennedy for holding the position of interim CEO since McDonald stepped down in December and until Murphy takes up the position.