New CEO takes the reins of Laois business and tourism body

Laois Chamber Alliance has announced the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer.

Jackie Carroll has taken over the running of the body which acts as an umbrella body for Laois Chamber and Laois Tourism.

“We are delighted to announce the appointment of Jackie Carroll as the new CEO of Laois Chamber Alliance,” said James McElwee, President of Laois Chamber Alliance.

A statement said he was assured that Ms Carroll would bring a determined energy to the role and look to build on the “great work of previous CEOs”.

Ms Carroll is a native of Laois and returned to live in the county in 2009. As a career management consultant, she set up her own business consultancy practice in 2018, where she was appointed to animate the Laois Tourism strategy.

The Chamber said she has always promoted Laois as a destination and is excited to support and promote new and existing businesses in Laois.

The Chamber said her plan, in collaboration with the board of the Chamber Alliance, would be focused on ensuring that all members are consulted engaged with and they are supported by Laois Chamber Alliance.

A statement said that utilising her networking skills, she will look to further build a platform where local businesses and stakeholders can communicate, discuss plans and propose ideas.

The Chamber added that her strategy will involve three main areas of activity:

• Meet and gather feedback from all members and stakeholders to understand concerns and opportunities;
• Create a series of events discussing and exploring topics that are of value to the members;
• Create engaging online and social media content that showcases Laois as a destination to work, live, visit and primarily do business.

Ms Carroll takes over from Caroline Hofman who is now the Managing Director of The Cube low carbon business centre in Portlaoise.

Mr McElwee extended his gratitude to the former CEO.

“We thank Caroline for her tireless efforts on behalf of the Chamber Alliance and for her continuing support to Chamber activities in her new role,” he said.

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