University of Limerick seeking firm to carry out ‘executive search’ for new president

UNIVERSITY of Limerick (UL) bosses have taken a step forward in their efforts to recruit a full-time permanent president.
The college has put out an advertisement seeking a company to carry out an “executive search” for its next full-time president.
It comes more than a year after its former president Prof Kerstin Mey resigned after students and staff expressed a lack of confidence in the German’s leadership,
She had been on sick leave since March 2024. Since then, Prof Shane Kilcommins has been the acting president of UL.
The college has commenced what is described as a tendering process.
This is compulsory for all public companies or firms in receipt of large public funds.

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It is done to  acquire goods and services in a transparent and competitive manner, ensuring best value for public money.
Whichever company is successful in the tender is being asked to initiate a search process to establish appropriate lists of suitable candidates for the role of UL president.
“The successful tenderer will be required to conduct executive search services for the filling of the role of University of Limerick president,” the tender notice goes on to state.
“The appointees will be expected to take on significant leadership roles within the University and work closely with as key stakeholders, both internally and externally,” it adds.
Interested parties have until next Wednesday, July 23, to formalise their interest in leading the search for a new president.
A spokesperson for the college said: “Prof Kilcommins is fully empowered and is actively leading the university, ensuring continuity across the university’s academic and operational functions.”