New Chair brings extensive leadership experience in rural development, agriculture and community empowerment
The Local Development Companies Network has announced the appointment of Sean Lavery as its new Chair, bringing decades of experience, particularly in rural development, agricultural representation and organisational leadership to the role.
Mr Lavery, who currently serves as Chair of West Limerick Resources and is an independent director of Macra na Feirme, succeeds Thomas Fitzpatrick, who has led the organisation through a significant period of growth and transformation, including delivering its inaugural conference in 2025 and its recent rebrand to the Local Development Companies Network.
The appointment comes at a pivotal time for communities across Ireland, as Local Development Companies continue to play a key role in supporting rural and urban communities through employment support initiatives, social inclusion programmes, enterprise supports, community development and the delivery of important Government and EU-funded programmes.
Welcoming the appointment, Máirín Ó Cuireáin, CEO of the Local Development Companies Network, said:
“Sean brings a wealth of experience, insight and commitment to community-led development. Throughout his career he has demonstrated a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing rural Ireland, while also recognising the importance of strong, inclusive communities in every part of the country.
As we embark on a new strategic phase for our network, Sean’s leadership will help ensure that Local Development Companies continue to be powerful advocates for community development, social inclusion and sustainable regional growth.
I would also like to sincerely thank our outgoing Chair, Thomas Fitzpatrick, whose dedication and stewardship helped guide the organisation through a period of significant change and progress.”
Accepting the appointment, Sean Lavery said:
“I am honoured to take on the role of Chair of the Local Development Companies Network and to represent a sector that makes such a profound difference in communities throughout Ireland.
Local Development Companies are uniquely placed to respond to local needs, empower communities and deliver practical solutions that improve people’s lives. Whether supporting social inclusion, enterprise development or environmental sustainability, our sector is helping to build stronger and more resilient communities.
As we begin the implementation of a new strategic plan, I look forward to working with colleagues across the network to build greater awareness of the value and impact of local development and to ensure communities remain at the heart of national policy and investment.”
A native of County Limerick, Mr Lavery has a long track record of leadership in both agriculture and community development. He served as Chair of Limerick IFA from 2021 to 2025, advocating on issues including agricultural policy, rural viability and infrastructure investment. He has also contributed to collaborative environmental initiatives through the Mulkear European Innovation Partnership, supporting improvements in water quality and sustainable farming practices.
His professional career includes almost two decades with Kerry Group, where he held roles in master data management and commercial operations. Earlier in his career, he worked with Shannon Development, supporting enterprise and small industry development across the Mid-West region.
Mr Lavery’s appointment comes as community development, rural sustainability and regional investment take centre stage at this year’s National Ploughing Championships, where thousands of farmers, community organisations, policymakers and rural stakeholders will gather to discuss the future of rural Ireland.
