Love Irish Food announces the appointment of Conor Kilduff as the next Executive Director, succeeding Kieran Rumley who retires from the role at the end of 2024
Love Irish Food, the representative organisation for Irish food and drink producers, today announced that Kieran Rumley, its Executive Director, since 2011, will be retiring effective 13 December 2024. The Board of Directors has appointed Conor Kilduff as his successor, effective from 11th November 2024. This transition marks an important milestone in Love Irish Food’s continued growth and support of Irish food producers.
Kieran Rumley, has been the driving force for 13 years, leading the growth and development of Love Irish Food and building the organisation into the leading voice for Irish Produced brands. The organisation was founded in 2009 with the aim of helping consumers make informed choices about buying Irish manufactured food and drinks. It currently represents over 130 member brands, including the household names: Ballymaloe, Club Orange, Ballygowan, Cadbury, Flahavan’s, Glenisk, Keeling’s and Tayto, together with Retailer Partner Tesco Ireland. Mr Rumley will continue in his role as non-executive Director on the Board.
Commenting on his retirement as Executive Director, Kieran Rumley said: “It has been a privilege to serve as Executive Director of Love Irish Food and represent such a varied group of Irish brands and producers over the years. I am extremely proud of what’s been accomplished during my tenure. Conor Kilduff has a tremendous leadership track record in the Irish branded food industry. His appointment will add greatly to the work of Love Irish Food.”
New Executive Director, Conor Kilduff, brings a wealth of industry experience with his appointment. Previously Managing Director and VP of Customer Development at Unilever Ireland Ltd and Sales and Marketing Director at Keelings, Conor’s background in brand and strategic development and his knowledge of the Irish Grocery industry will support Love Irish Food’s continued expansion and growth.
Commenting on the transition, Donald Williamson, Chair of Love Irish Food said: “Conor is an exceptional leader with excellent experience in the retail sector and a deep understanding of Love Irish Food’s mission, values and long-term goals. The Board is confident that he will build on the strong foundation laid by Kieran and drive further success for the organisation.”
Conor Kilduff, New Executive Director of Love Irish Food, said: “I am honoured and excited to take on this new role and look forward to working with the talented Irish producers and brand owners as we continue to collaborate with and promote them.”