Fingal Chamber Welcomes Kevin Smith as President and Pat O'Connor as Vice President

Fingal Chamber proudly announces the appointment of Kevin Smith as its new President, succeeding Helen McNamara. Alongside him, Pat O'Connor assumes the role of Vice President, marking a moment of change in the Chamber's leadership.

Kevin Smith, currently serving as Client Partner Director at Capita Ireland, brings a wealth of experience in business services to his new role. Having previously held leadership positions at Fujitsu Ireland and Xerox Global Services, Kevin's extensive background positions him well to advocate for Fingal's diverse business community. With a passion for community engagement and a commitment to fostering economic growth, Kevin aims to collaborate closely with Chamber stakeholders to address the evolving needs of local businesses.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the opportunity, Kevin stated, "It's a great honour to serve the Fingal business community. I am looking forward to getting out there and talking to our business community face to face, learning from all the good work that has been done and supporting them through business challenges over the coming year to ensure continued success in Fingal. 

"Our diverse region has a very strong business network and I want to make sure we leverage the opportunities available to businesses, build relationships and succeed together. I am looking forward to working closely with the Chamber CEO, Anthony Cooney and the Chamber board, and plan to lobby and represent current business needs and drive economic activity in the region working with local businesses and key stakeholders including Fingal County Council and Central Government.”

Joining Kevin in his endeavour is Pat O'Connor, Head of School of Social Sciences, Law, and Education at the Technological University of Dublin. Before the establishment of the University Pat was Head of School of Business and Humanities at the Institute of Technology Blanchardstown (ITB) where he continues to be based. Pat's extensive experience in higher education policy and community development positions him as a valuable addition to the Chamber's leadership team. With a deep understanding of Fingal's business and community landscape, Pat is poised to contribute significantly to the Chamber's mission of fostering a vibrant business environment.

Reflecting on his new role, Pat remarked, "Contributing to both the Business and Community interests in Fingal is a privilege, and I am looking forward to my new role with Fingal Chamber through further building on the achievements of the Chamber to date and contributing to a vibrant business environment and a place for all to live and visit and enjoy."

Marking the handover, Fingal Chamber Chief Executive, Anthony Cooney said:

"While on the Chamber's Business Council, Kevin and Pat collaborated extensively on the Strategy Committee, identifying how the Chamber's aims and objectives can best serve the business community in Fingal. Leveraging insights gathered from comprehensive stakeholder engagement initiatives, including sentiment surveys and business consultations conducted last year, they are well-equipped to guide the Chamber in its mission to support Fingal businesses effectively.

"Fingal Chamber extends its gratitude to outgoing President Helen McNamara for her leadership and dedication to advancing the Chamber's goals. Under her stewardship, the Chamber has made significant strides in advocating for local businesses and fostering economic growth in the region.

As the Chamber enters this new chapter under the leadership of Kevin Smith and Pat O'Connor, it remains steadfast in its commitment to championing the interests of Fingal's dynamic business community."