LIMERICK MAN GETS TOP JOB AT DAIRYGOLD
Dairygold has a new CEO this week and shareholders were told of the news via a text message from the co-op on Tuesday last, writes Brian Moore.
Jim Woulfe has been appointed to the top job as the co-op faces an uphill struggle with a massive drop in profits and the sale to the Kerry Group of some of the co op’s key brands.
A UCC dairy science graduate, 49 year old Mr Woulfe, has been head of Dairygold’s agri division since 2002. Previous to that he held senior roles as head of human resources and manager of milk supplies at Dairygold. A native of Ardagh, Co. Limerick, he joined Ballyclough’s milk processing division in 1979.
Many shareholders welcomed the appointment and are looking forward to a prosperous future for the co-op now that Mr. Woulfe has been appointed. One shareholder who was also a member of the committee in the Clogheen area hopes that the appointment of Mr Woulfe will signal better days for the co-op and it’s shareholders.
“I am delighted with the appointment of Jim Woulfe. Dairygold wouldn’t be in the situation it’s in today if Jim had gotten the job before. “I hope he takes control of Dairygold again,” shareholder, PJ English, told The Avondhu.
Another shareholder who welcomes the selection as CEO of Mr Woulfe is local T.D. Ned O’Keeffe (FF), “I welcome the appointment of Jim Woulfe and would wish him all the best for the future,” Deputy O’Keeffe said.
In a statement issued on behalf of Jim Woulfe and Dairygold, Mr. Woulfe said; “I am greatly honoured to be appointed as CEO of Dairygold, Irelands largest farmer owned co-operative. I recognise and understand the enormity of the challenges facing farmer members, the society and the dairy industry. I look forward to working closely with the board, various committees, the Dairygold management team and staff in addressing the critical issues facing the business and maximizing the society’s future potential.”
As a shareholder and former committee member from Galbally, Jim Fitzgerald is also confident that Dairygold will be in good hands with Jim Woulfe.
“Jim is very competent and has proved himself time and again at Dairygold. I don’t think that he will be found wanting when it comes to driving Dairygold forward. I welcome his appointment and wish him well,” Mr Fitzgerald told The Avondhu.
Dairygold chairman Mr. Vincent Buckley is happy with the selection of Jim Woulfe; “In Jim’s previous roles, he has gained considerable experience and knowledge of all facets of the business, has proven business acumen, and a clear understanding of the workings and requirements of all stakeholders.
"In times of unprecedented difficulty in the dairy industry we believe his approach and stewardship of our co operative will earn him the support of all our stakeholders and generate the enthusiasm with which to face the challenges ahead so that the society is well positioned to meet the expectations of our farmer suppliers and members,” Mr Buckley said.
It is understood that there were over 30 applicants for the job of CEO from both within and outside Dairygold Co-op.
Published:
Thursday 2nd July 6:44pm
