Enterprise Ireland CEO Leo Clancy announces departure

Executive director Kevin Sherry to step into role on interim basis from March

Leo Clancy, chief executive of Enterprise Ireland, is to leave his role in March.
Leo Clancy, chief executive of Enterprise Ireland, is to leave his role in March.

Enterprise Ireland chief executive Leo Clancy is to step down in March to take up a leadership role in the private sector.

A process to identify his replacement will begin immediately, while executive director Kevin Sherry will step into the role on an interim basis.

Enterprise Ireland chairman Michael Carey said he had been notified of Mr Clancy’s intention to pursue a career opportunity in the private sector.

“This news comes at a time when the agency is in a very strong position, having achieved record results in terms of client jobs and exports, spend in the Irish economy and support for start-ups,” he said.

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“We wish him well in the next phase of his career.”

Mr Clancy was appointed chief executive in March 2021, succeeding Julie Sinnamon. He joined the organisation from IDA Ireland where he was head of technology, consumer and business services.

Enterprise Ireland allocated a total of €492 million in funds in 2023, according to its annual report. The majority of the funding – €331 million – was put towards development for businesses.

Another €60 million was given to third party agencies; €56 million to Irish client services; €28 million to client service abroad; and €17 million to operations.

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