Karen Ronan to step down as General Manager of Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau
Ms Ronan leaves the Bureau after 22 years during which she has grown and developed the organisation
The Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau has confirmed that General Manager Karen Ronan has resigned and will be taking up a new position in Galway. The Board has commenced the recruitment process to appoint her successor.
Ms Ronan leaves the Bureau after 22 years during which she has grown and developed the organisation, along with strengthening the region’s position as a perfect destination for business and sports tourism.
Her leadership has been instrumental in driving key initiatives, fostering strong industry partnerships and securing major events that have contributed to the regions economic and tourism landscape.
The core remit of the Bureau is to attract international conferences, events, sport competitions and high-end luxury business to the region. This focus brings significant economic benefits to the hospitality industry and the entire tourism infrastructure in the Shannon region, with knock-on effects for the wider economy.
In 2023, on the occasion of its 20th anniversary, the Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau announced that it had attracted international conferences and events to the region worth €150 million for the local economy.
Denise Brazil, Treasurer of the Bureau and Director of the Bedford Townhouse, spoke proudly of Ms Ronan’s contributions.
She said, “Karen’s dedication and expertise have been invaluable to the Bureau and to the wider Shannon region. Under her leadership, the Bureau has successfully positioned the region as a competitive and attractive destination for incentive travel, conferences and sporting events. We thank her for her tireless efforts and wish her the very best in her next chapter.”
The Board has assured stakeholders that the Bureau will continue to deliver on its mission during this transition period, supported by a committed team and industry partners.
Further details on the recruitment process will be shared in due course.