Liam Hyland Assumes Presidency of Irish Exporters Association

The Irish Exporters Association (IEA) has appointed Liam Hyland as its new President, effective immediately. Hyland, who serves as the Director of Export & International Trade at FoodEx Ireland, part of the Musgrave Group, succeeds Gabrielle White, the Executive Director and Head of Supply Chain & Logistics with PTC Therapeutics.

In a statement regarding Hyland’s appointment, Simon McKeever, Chief Executive of the IEA, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I am delighted to welcome Liam Hyland as President of the Irish Exporters Association for 2026.” He highlighted Hyland’s extensive experience in international trade and a customer-focused approach, which he believes will be vital for the association’s continued growth.

Hyland has been a member of the IEA’s National Council since 2020, bringing valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by exporters in Ireland. McKeever emphasized the importance of collaboration, noting that the IEA must work closely with its members to navigate pressing issues such as market access and supply-chain resilience. He stated, “Liam’s experience and collaborative approach will be key to ensuring our members’ voices are heard and their export ambitions are realised.”

Upon accepting the presidency, Hyland remarked, “I am honoured to take on the role of President of the Irish Exporters Association for 2026. At a time of increasing complexity in international trade, the work of the IEA in supporting exporters has never been more important.” His commitment includes advocating for policies that enhance competitiveness and assist members in overcoming regulatory and geopolitical challenges.

Hyland aims to focus on enhancing export capabilities and fostering strategic partnerships. He underlined the necessity for the IEA to remain a prominent voice for its members, ensuring that the needs of the Irish exporting industry are effectively communicated to government and key stakeholders. He concluded, “Together we will focus on enhancing export capability, deepening strategic partnerships, and ensuring Irish exporters are well positioned to succeed on the international stage.”

The appointment of Hyland signals a proactive step towards addressing the evolving landscape of international trade, particularly as exporters face numerous challenges in the coming years. His leadership is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of the IEA and supporting the growth of Ireland’s export sector.