Michael has been a ‘critical member’ of Dairygold’s senior leadership team since his appointment as chief financial officer (CFO) in 2006, and he has ‘significantly contributed to the development and implementation of the Society’s strategies during this period’ according to a Dairygold statement.
He is a Fellow Chartered Management Accountant, and joined Dairygold in 1989, after graduating from the University of Limerick with a degree in Business Studies (Finance & Law). Prior to becoming CFO, he held various senior finance roles in the organisation. As CFO, Michael oversaw the society’s growth and transformation, including the planning of the significant capital investment and financing of Dairygold’s post-quota expansion.
Welcoming Michael’s appointment, Dairygold chair, Seán O’Brien said: “I am very pleased that we are in a position to appoint someone of Michael’s calibre as chief executive. Michael has extensive knowledge and experience of Dairygold and the industry. He is a trusted leader who has demonstrated excellent leadership and negotiation skills, as well as having a collaborative partnership approach, which makes him ideally suited for the role. His commercial and operational acumen has seen him consistently deliver strong financial performances, and achieve strategic objectives, including acquisitions, which have helped contribute to the society’s significant growth, with its turnover tripling from approximately €0.5bn in 2006, to €1.5bn today.”
Commenting on his appointment, Michael said: “It is an exciting time to take on the role, as the industry faces opportunities and challenges, from which we must maximise the sustainable returns for all stakeholders. In addition, I am committed to realising the full potential of Dairygold’s Health and Nutrition Business, following the acquisition of Vita Actives in 2023. I am looking forward to working with the board, the committees, our members, our senior leadership team, and all employees to deliver on our strategic ambitions, to create value for our farming families across Munster and all our stakeholders.”
Michael, who is from a farming background in Timoleague, West Cork, lives in Douglas, Cork, with his wife Jane. He has three adult children. He is also a board member of the Cork Chamber of Commerce and a member of the Cork GAA Audit and Risk Committee.