The co-op board, consisting of 14 farmers from Glanbia's regional structures and CEO Siobhan Talbot, selected Corbally to succeed Liam Herlihy.

He emerged from a very close contest with fellow vice-chair Martin Keane of Co Laois. Corbally will now lead Ireland's biggest co-op with assets in Glanbia worth almost €2bn. In addition, he will assume the position of chair of the $5bn Glanbia plc; probably the last co-op nominee to do so.

ADVERTISEMENT

Pat Murphy from Co Kilkenny was elected to replace Corbally as vice-chair.

IFA President Eddie Downey today congratulated Corbally on his election.

“I welcome Henry Corbally’s election to this very important position in the Irish dairy sector. In the context of the opportunities and challenges that are facing the sector, his is a very influential and responsible appointment," Downey said.

IFA National Dairy Committee Chairman Sean O’Leary said: “I look forward to working with both men in the challenging and exciting post-quota era. Glanbia is our largest milk purchaser, and has broad relevance for all dairy farmers in Ireland. I have no doubt that Henry will provide strong leadership in Glanbia”.