Shock in Kilkenny as John Hurley to depart as Chamber CEO after 12 years
Kilkenny Chamber said he had announced his decision to step down from the role to pursue new opportunities
There is shock in the Kilkenny business community this morning with the announcement by Kilkenny Chamber that John Hurley is to depart as CEO after 12 years.
In a statement this morning, Chamber said he had announced his decision to step down from the role to pursue new opportunities.
“While we support John’s decision and wish him well, it is with regret that we must say goodbye to John on September 7,” said Kilkenny Chamber President Claire McInerney Brown.
For more than a decade, John led Kilkenny Chamber through a period of considerable change for the organisation and wider business community. During this time, we have seen consistent membership growth, the introduction of new initiatives such as the Chamber Chats, and ongoing support for members through some challenging times, including the pandemic.
“Among the highlights of his tenure are the transformation of the Kilkenny Business Awards into a highly anticipated professional event and the success of Kilkenny Gift Voucher Scheme(s), which have contributed to more than €1.6 million in local spending since John started.
“As the largest lobbying group in the country, John has been that voice at the Chambers Ireland table representing Kilkenny’s interests over the last 12 years and a regular media spokesperson for local commerce.”
Just last week, Mr Hurley gave an interview to the Kilkenny People where he discussed - among other things - the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP) and challenges to Kilkenny business, such as declining tourist numbers.
The Board of Directors has now begun a recruitment process for the CEO position.
“On behalf of the Board and our members, we wish John continued success in this next chapter and sincerely thank him for his contribution to Kilkenny Chamber and the wider business community over the last 12 years,” said Ms McInerney Brown.