A Laois man has been appointed as the new chairman of Kilkenny Tourism.
Ciaran Conroy, from Portlaoise, joins the body which strives to increase the economic impact of continued investment in Kilkenny’s tourism sector and maximize the audience reach.
A previous manager of Leopardstown Racecourse, Mr Conroy would be well known in Laois for his involvement in various GAA teams.
He was part of a number of Laois GAA teams with Pat Critchley – helping Laois ladies footballers to Leinster titles in the 2000s and with the Laois minor hurlers in more recent years.
The Portlaoise man brings with him a wealth of experience to the role, as a senior manager with over 25 year’s commercial business experience and a proven track record in strategy, marketing and business development.
A former graduate and Fellow of the Marketing Institute of Ireland, Ciarán holds a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA).
Since 2016, Ciarán has held the position as CEO of Kilkenny Civic Trust, which operates Butler House an Ireland’s blue book boutique hotel in the centre of Kilkenny and the Medieval Mile Museum, the well-known visitor attraction in Kilkenny. In addition, Ciarán is a Board member of the ‘Cuisle Centre’ one of Ireland’s leading cancer support centres.
Previously, Ciarán held senior roles in Waterford Crystal, Horse Racing Ireland and Bord Na Móna.
Commenting on his appointment, Ciarán said: “I am thrilled to be taking up this new role at Kilkenny Tourism.
“While this is a challenging time for the tourism and hospitality sector there are many exciting opportunities ahead to build on Kilkenny’s excellent reputation.
“I am looking forward to working with our members and partners to develop the great work that the organisation has already done in positioning Kilkenny as a leading destination to visit.
“I plan to oversee the regrowth and sustainability of tourism in the county for 2021 and beyond and look forward to Kilkenny welcoming back visitors with a new and exciting tourism offering when it is safe to travel again.”
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