Port of Waterford announces chief executive-designate

A strategy development manager with Glanbia Ingredients has been appointed chief executive-designate of the Port of Waterford Company.

The announcement was made yesterday that Frank Ronan, who was also managing director of Wexford Creamery for nine years, will take over in October when current chief executive Stan McIlvenny retires after 12 years at the helm.

A chartered accountant, Mr Ronan also spent 13 years as finance director with the Stafford Group.

Chairman of the Port of Waterford Company, Des Whelan, said yesterday Frank Ronan will bring “a wealth of relevant business leadership and experience” to the role of chief executive.

“The board look forward to working with him and the entire Port of Waterford team to ensure that the port capitalises fully on the economic recovery that’s now underway,” he said.

“There are tremendous opportunities to grow and diversify the Port’s business and Frank will lead the team in achieving that.

The chief executive position was advertised in February and Des Whelan said te board was “very pleased” with the calibre of applicants. “Frank is the ideal candidate to build on the work done by Stan McIlvenny and to take the port forward as a key export and import gateway for the southeast region and Ireland more widely.”

The chairman also hailed Stan McIlvenny’s contribution as chief executive since July of 2003. “The reorganisation that he led and his astute management of the Port through the economic downturn leave the company well-positioned for growth.”