Claire McInerney Brown becomes new Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce President

Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce has a new president after Claire McInerney Brown received the chain at its AGM at Butler House on Thursday.

The county Clare native will serve a two year term in the role, succeeding the outgoing Anne Barber in heading the Chamber and setting out its vision for dealing with evolving challenges at home and abroad.

Business owners from all over the country travelled to Butler House for the Chamber’s 78th AGM with other business on the agenda including the directors’ report and audited accounts along with the dissolution of the 2025-26 board and election of the 2026-27 board.

Opening proceedings, Ms Barber reflected on the work of the Chamber over the last year saying that “we have continued to grow a successful programme of networking and information events for our members, to host MEPs, senators and visiting delegations, and to be a touchpoint for business in Kilkenny.”

After this, the chain and title was transferred with Ms Barber adding that “Claire brings incredible energy and enthusiasm to the role and I know she will work tirelessly for Kilkenny Chamber and its members.”

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Ms McInerny Brown, who served as Vice-President of the Chamber last year and is also CEO of Suasmane Consulting, then made her first speech as President, highlighting Kilkenny’s historic past as a centre of commerce and the diversity of its modern-day offerings.

“Whether in design and craft, retail, manufacturing, services, hospitality, food production or technology, Kilkenny businesses have shown a commitment to high standards that is recognised far beyond our county boundaries,” she outlined.

“As a Chamber, we have a role to champion that pursuit of excellence, supporting our members to network, to innovate, to compete and to lead in their respective fields. “As I look ahead, my focus over the next two years is clear: to represent you - our members - with energy, integrity and purpose,” she continued.

Closing the meeting, CEO John Hurley spoke about ongoing challenges such as the recent fuel protests and US tariffs before emphasising the positive effect Chamber members working together can have in the city and county.

“Membership is our lifeblood,” he said. “Our members are the reason we exist. We are here to represent and support you, and we are always open to new members joining.”

“So please do encourage every business person you know to come and talk to us about joining our organisation. Together we are stronger and Kilkenny knows all about pulling together to get results,” he concluded.

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