The British Irish Chamber of Commerce has appointed its first female president, Maree Gallagher of Counsel, Covington and Burling LLP.

Gallagher previously served as the Chamber's vice president from 2020 to 2022 and succeeds Paul W O'Connor at the head of the organisations, which represents businesses and employers with interests in Britain and Ireland.

Regarded as one of Europe's leading food law and crisis management expects, Gallagher advises clients on EU food and life sciences law and policy and has over 25 years of experience in the legal profession.

Commenting on her appointment, Gallagher said: "I am delighted to take on the role as President of the British Irish Chamber of Commerce, a vital institution and leading voice for businesses across Ireland and the UK.

“It is no secret that Brexit has created many, many challenges for British and Irish businesses doing business with each other. Our hope at the Chamber is that, through ongoing dialogue, we will assist companies struggling to navigate this complex landscape and pave the way for sustained growth in both markets.”

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“Given the economic headwinds economies across Europe are facing and the close economic ties between the UK and Ireland, this assistance has perhaps never been so important.

"As well as helping to foster those ties, I intend to use my time as President of the Chamber to help companies focus on the growing need for genuine ESG compliance. As the Chamber’s first woman President, I will also seek to ensure my appointment helps empower women in business across these islands.”

The Chamber has also appointed Jeanne Kelly, founding partner of Browne Jacobson Ireland, as the new vice-president, while Daire Keogh, president of DCU, has been appointed to the board.

Trade between Britain and Ireland is worth over €1.3bn per week and €70bn per year and supports some 400,000 jobs.

Photo: Maree Gallagher. (Pic: Gittings Photography)