The new Chief Executive of Louth County Council, David Conway, officially began his tenure today, Monday 20th January.

The Limerick native, who was formally ratified by the elected members of Louth County Council in November 2024, succeeds Joe McGuinness, who filled the role temporarily following the retirement of Joan Martin last summer.

Mr Conway's first day at County Hall proved to be a busy one. After a brief introduction to the Management Team and Councillors, the new Chief Executive attended the first Louth County Council monthly meeting of 2025.

Speaking afterwards, Mr Conway said: "I was struck by the positive and collaborative engagement among the Councillors and Council Executive, and it was clear that all parties are committed to doing their best for the citizens of Louth.

"As the new Chief Executive, I am honoured to have the opportunity to work with the Cathaoirleach, the Councillors, Council Executive and to proactively support all stakeholders in their endeavours to deliver further impactful change for County Louth.

"As stated in the Louth County Council Corporate Plan 2024-2029, the overarching mission of Louth County Council is to create a vibrant sustainable county, fostering economic growth and enhancing quality of life through active engagement, civic leadership and delivery of effective public services.

"Globally, these are uncertain times but with several innovative and strategic programmes in place, and a commitment to adhere to the core values of Louth County Council as a democratic, citizen-centric and innovative local authority, where good governance, sustainability, equality and inclusiveness guide service delivery, I am confident that County Louth will continue to flourish in the years ahead.

"A thriving Louth County Council has significant positive implications for the county and the North-East region as a whole, and I am looking forward to building on the excellent and exciting progress that has been made in recent years."

Mr Conway has over two decades of experience in leadership roles and a proven track record of success in both the public and private sectors.

Before taking up the position of Chief Executive with Louth County Council, he was the CEO of Limerick Twenty Thirty DAC (Designated Activity Company), the first local authority wholly owned special purpose vehicle created in Ireland to deliver a city and countywide programme of investment. 

He successfully led the development of key strategic sites in his native city with a capitalised value of €1 billion for urban renewal and economic growth.

Mr Conway also spent over 15 years as project manager, director of operations and then CEO of the National Sports Campus in Blanchardstown, where he was responsible for the delivery of the world-class facilities that are in place today.

Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Cllr Kevin Callan said: “On behalf of the elected members of Louth County Council, I wish to congratulate David Conway on his appointment as Chief Executive.

"David is taking up the role at an exciting time for Louth and the experience, knowledge and vision that he will bring to the county is greatly welcomed."