Honorary doctorate for Clare businessman in recognition of his contribution to the Mid-West

The University of Limerick has honoured Michael Guinee, former CEO of Ei Electronics, with an honorary Doctorate of Engineering in recognition of his huge legacy as an engineer, employer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist in the Mid-West.

Under his leadership of over 35 years Ei Electronics has become one of Ireland’s largest and most successful indigenous manufacturing and exporting companies with a turnover of €425 million in 2024.

It is estimated that since its inception, over 17,000 people have worked at the Shannon based organisation.

A new era began at Shannon-based Ei Electronic on April 1 following the departure of Mick Guinee who has been CEO of for more than 40 years.

Speaking at the honorary doctorate ceremony in Plassey House, UL’s Acting President Professor Shane Kilcommins commented: “Michael Guinee’s work in engineering, sustainability, business and community development has been recognised on multiple occasions by both Ennis and Limerick chambers of commerce and today, it is fitting that University of Limerick recognises and honours his immense legacy."

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Prof Kilcommins added: “Michael’s extraordinary commitment to maintaining manufacturing in Shannon, his tenacious support of his dedicated staff and his ability to innovate at scale are just some of the many reasons we celebrate him.

A native of Mallow in north Cork, Michael graduated from UCC with a Bachelor of Engineering. He then completed a master’s degree in Industrial Engineering in UCD. He worked for a short time with the ESB before moving to General Electric to work for ECCO, a GE company in Dundalk.

He moved to Shannon in 1981 and two years later, he was appointed Managing Director of GE subsidiary Ei Company.  

Shannon Chamber, which was represented at the conferring ceremony, says Michael Guinee is full-deserving of the honour.

Chief executive Helen Downes says she watched with pride as this fitting tribute was paid to one of the founding chairs of Shannon Chamber and such an inspirational leader and advocate for Shannon.

"Even whilst leading his company, Ei Electronics, to the heights it has now reached, Mick was always there in the background, monitoring our progress and supporting our endeavours to enable Shannon attain recognition as a powerhouse in an industrial context."

Ms Downes added: "To have one of the largest indigenous companies in our midst is due to Mick's determination to grow an Irish company of scale, and to show that Ireland can be a successful manufacturing base for a company with the right products, processes and leadership. He is a truly inspirational leader with extraordinary vision. An Honorary Doctorate is a fitting recognition for the enormous contribution he has made to so many facets of life in Shannon and beyond."