The Western Development Commission has appointed Allan Mulrooney as its interim chief executive, following the departure of Tomás Ó Síocháin after four years at the helm.

Mulrooney will commence work in the role next month when Ó Síocháin takes up his new position as CEO of Údarás na Gaeltachta, the state agency responsible for the economic, social and cultural development of the Gaeltacht.

A competitive process to appoint a permanent CEO is expected to get underway in early 2023.

Sligo native Mulrooney served as head of communications and Atlantic economic corridor development as a member of the WDC management after joining the organisation in 2019.

In his time at WDC, Mulrooney has led ConnectedHubs.ie and WesternJobs.ie initiatives as well as a full rebrand of the organisation and its 'More to Life' digital campaign. Previously, he worked with IDA Ireland and Eir.

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ConnectedHubs.ie enables workers to book space at state remote working hubs, starting a pilot scheme for the Atlantic cost and growing to become a key part of the government's blueprint for post-Covid record and the development of rural Ireland.

"It is an honour to accept the position as chief executive on an interim basis," Mulrooney said. "Our mission will not change, and I look forward to working with my colleagues across the wider WDC team and the Department of Rural and Community Development.

"It is vital that we continue to stimulate businesses, support innovation, build new partnerships and foster a vibrant ecosystem across the region at this critical time."

Commenting on his successor's appointment, Ó Síocháin said: "I would like to congratulate Allan on his appointment as Interim CEO.

"Allan brings a wealth of experience to this role, particularly in the ongoing and planned work of the WDC and already has an excellent working relationship with key regional and national stakeholders in the regional development sector."

Photo: Alan Mulrooney.