Industry movers and shakers

Pat McLoughlin

Appointed general manager of Chanelle Pharma

With over two decades of experience in senior leadership roles, Pat McLoughlin has worked in organisations such as B. Braun and GlaxoSmithKline. He has gained extensive experience leading global manufacturing sites and advancing safety and compliance standards. In his new role, he will oversee all operations across manufacturing, engineering, OPEX, supply chain, quality control (QC), and facilities at Chanelle Pharma.

Pat says, “I am excited to join Chanelle Pharma at such a pivotal time in its journey. The company’s commitment to innovation and its dedication to delivering high-quality products globally is truly inspiring. I look forward to working with the talented team to build on this legacy and drive continued success.”

Pat Clancy

Elected chair of Dairygold Co-Operative Society

Hailing from Ballyporeen, Co Tipperary, Pat Clancy has been on the board of Dairygold since 2018. He served as vice-chair from October 2020 to December 2022. And his commitment dates back even further – he has been part of the general committee since 2008, and the Mitchelstown regional committee since 2006.

“I’m honoured to have been elected as chairperson of Dairygold. Dairygold is a strong, well-invested and globally competitive business and an outstanding co-operative with a true commitment to its member shareholders,” says Pat. “I am grateful to the board for the confidence and trust they have shown in me today and to the members who have supported me over many years. It is an exciting time to take on the role.”

David Leydon

Appointed group head of growth and agrifood consulting at ifac

After 11 years working for the Irish Farmers Journal, four of those as commercial director, David moved to ifac in 2018 and took up the role as head of food and agribusiness.

He is a director on the board of AgTech Ireland and holds a Master’s from Dublin City University and an MBA from Henley Business School in London.

Speaking about his new appointment, David says, “After seven years leading our food and agribusiness advisory proposition, I’m delighted to be taking on a wider group role. ifac is a great place to work. Our team, based in 30 offices across Ireland, are making a significant contribution to the rural economy through the accounting, finance, tax and consultancy engagement we have with our 26,000 clients.”

Niamh Bambrick

Appointed agricultural sustainability manager at Bord Bia

Having earned a degree in agricultural science from University College Dublin (UCD), Niamh Bambrick continued her educational development by completing a Master’s in supply chain management, a HDip in digital marketing and a Master’s in environmental sustainability. She has worked across the sector with companies including Tirlán and Mullinahone Co-op. She was appointed president of the Agricultural Science Association (ASA) in 2023.

“Bord Bia is an organisation that I have long since admired for the role it plays in Irish agriculture and on the world stage promoting Irish produce and our industry,” says Niamh in relation to her new role. “I am looking forward to working with a progressive team that has a very driven and forward-thinking mindset.”

Helen Mulholland

Appointed chair of the Irish Whiskey Association

Having served as the association’s vice-chair since 2022, Helen succeeds former chair James Doherty, managing director of Sliabh Liag Distillers. Helen is a master blender with Sazerac Ireland, a company with a growing portfolio of well known spirit brands.

Speaking about her appointment, Helen says, “Being invited to chair the Irish Whiskey Association is a huge honour, and I am excited to represent the industry. My priority as chair will be to protect the integrity of the Irish whiskey category, as well as continuing its global promotion.

“Irish whiskey is a prime example of our all-island economy that brings with it a unique value that should be celebrated, particularly in 2025.”

Stephanie Scully

Appointed curriculum development and standards manager at Horse Racing Ireland

As a teacher at Gurteen Agricultural College since 2014, Stephanie Scully has over that time taught on part-time, distance and full-time education programmes.

She was appointed assistant principal in 2018, and has managed the education team since then, overseeing all education programmes at the college. “I’m looking forward to helping develop a tailored education programme for the Irish racing industry,” says Stephanie.

“I particularly look forward to helping those who have never engaged in formal education to begin their education journey towards gaining qualifications that will allow them to move into a chosen area of the industry.”