Guard of honour as chief executive of well-known local firm signs off

THERE was a guard of honour on an emotional day at Shannon firm Ei Electronics as its chief executive Mick Guinee stepped down after 42 years at the helm.

Management and staff of the 1,100 strong workforce, who produce fire alarms, hosted a reception to pay tribute to the businessman for his vision, leadership and support over the last four decades.

Addressing those gathered, Mr Guinee paid tribute to the generations who have played a role in the success of Ei over the years.

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He particularly noted the support of fellow founders Jim Duignan and Dr Mike Byrne, who along with him secured the management buyout of the Ei Company from General Electric in 1988.

It was this move which gave birth to Ei Electronics as we know it today.

To mark his retirement, Mr Guinee was presented with a cast bronze replica of the letter he wrote to the Ei Company staff in 1988 formally advising them of the management buy out from General Electric.

He stated at the time his confidence “that together the team could build a successful indigenous Irish-owned company, trading on international markets’.”

And this came to fruition, with Ei a global leader in its field with a turnover of €425m in 2024.

One of the largest employers in the region, the firm has built a reputation for giving back to communities and people.

This Tuesday, April 1 Mr Guinee formally handed over the reins to Leo Clancy, a former chief executive of Enterprise Ireland and head of technology with job creation agency, IDA Ireland.

Mr Guinee will still remain actively involved in the strategic future and direction of the business in his role as chairman of the board of directors at Ei Electronics.