Dairygold has confirmed the appointment of a new general manager for its Dairy Ireland business, along with a new head of member services and engagement.

Pat Laffan will be general manager of Dairy Ireland where he will have responsibility for the management of the manufacturing and commercial aspects of Dairygold’s Dairy Ireland business, including full profit and loss accountability.

He assumes the role from outgoing Dairy Ireland general manager, Eamon O’Sullivan who announced his intention to move on from Dairygold in December 2024.

The processor said that Pat will work with Eamon O'Sullivan over the coming months "to ensure a smooth and seamless transition".

Pat has served in a number of commercial and financial roles within Dairygold, most recently as head of commercial, Dairy Ireland.

He is a qualified chartered certified accountant and a University College Dublin (UCD) economics and finance graduate.

Pat also holds a diploma in high performance leadership and completed the Dairygold Advanced Leadership Development Programme with UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School.

Michael Harte, Dairygold chief executive, said that "Pat brings a deep understanding of our business operations, markets and customers, having worked at Dairygold for over 20 years".

"Pat will have responsibility for enhancing the commercial and operational performance of the business, leveraging recent investments in modern facilities to seize new opportunities and optimise financial outcomes.

"On behalf of the board and management team I congratulate Pat on his appointment and wish him well in his new role," he added.

Dairygold has also confirmed Billy Cronin as head of member services and engagement.

He will take on the role, in addition to his existing responsibilities as head of supply chain (Farm to Factory).

The processor said that the appointment "reflects Dairygold’s objective of creating a more integrated and aligned approach to member engagement across the society’s services".

Michael Harte wished Billy "every success in his enhanced role".

“In this expanded role, Billy will lead the co-ordination of our approach to member services across agri-business, milk assembly and other interactions, such as farm sustainability and advisory services," he said.