Offaly man secured Ireland's position as a world leader in the pharmaceutical industry

JOHN LLOYD, skilled negotiator and strategist, secured Ireland's position as a world leader in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries.

John played a pivotal role in transforming Ireland's economic fortunes through foreign direct investment from the 1980s onwards.

As head of the pharmaceutical and medical devices division of the Industrial Development Authority (IDA) over many years, he headed their programme to attract investors from the US, Germany, Switzerland and Japan, and under his leadership companies such as Pfizer, Eli Lilly, Schering-Plough, Boston Scientific and many others established a presence in Ireland.

A skilled negotiator and strategist, John worked closely with some of the most influential industrial players on both sides of the Atlantic. Although he retired from the IDA in 2002, he remained active in the sector, serving as an advisor to Murray Consultants.

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Born in Tullamore in 1941. John was the eldest of four children of Patrick and Brid Lloyd. The Lloyd family ran a successful household, grocery and dairy business serving the Cormac St and Charleville district. John received his education at St Columba's CBS and began his professional journey as a trainee manager at Salts Yarns, then one of the largest employers in the Midlands.

As a proud native of Tullamore and county Offaly, John's achievements are a source of pride for the local community.

Many will remember him from his formative years in Tullamore of the 1940s, 50s and 60s, whether through the family business, as fellow students at the CBS, or during his time at Salts. He later extended his experience in the UK, training at the parent plant and continuing his education at the University of Bradford.

John was a keen sportsman in his youth – a talented swimmer and tennis player and a devoted rugby fan. These passions stayed with him throughout his life.

In 2008, John returned to Tullamore for a particularly meaningful occasion – the official opening of Tullamore town park. The event held deep personal significance, as the park was named Lloyd Town Park in honour of the family's contribution to the community. John was proud to see his family's legacy celebrated in such a lasting and public way.

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John passed away after a short illness at Ashford House Nursing Home on February 25 last. He was predeceased by his beloved son, Jonathan.

He is survived by his wife Stella, his children and grandchildren, son-in-law, daughters-in-law, his brother Monsignor Enda Lloyd, his sisters Nancy Harrison, Tullamore, and Leonie Lloyd, Tullamore, as well as nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of friends and colleagues,

His life's work has left a lasting impression on all who knew him – in Tullamore, across Ireland and far beyond.

Thank you to Conor Brady, former Editor Irish Times, and Brian Cowen, former Taoiseach, for their contribution to this appreciation.