Limerick native appointed as Chairperson of Enterprise Ireland

THE MINISTER for enterprise, trade and employment, Peter Burke, has announced Jim Woulfe as the chairperson of Enterprise Ireland. 

Mr Woulfe has held the position of interim chair since June of 2025. 

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Originally from Ardagh, he joined the Ballyclough Coop in Mallow in 1979, after he graduated from University College Cork with a degree in Dairy Science. Ballyclough Coop later merged into Dairygold. 

Over the course of four decades, Mr Woulfe held a senior leadership position in Dairygold, including head of HR, head of agri business and he was appointed chief executive in 2009. 

Mr Woulfe served as chief executive of Dairygold Co‑Operative Society until his retirement in December 2021, following 42 years with the organisation.

Minister Burke said that Mr Woulfe brings his deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Irish businesses to his new role at chairperson of Enterprise Ireland. 

"Jim brings a proven track record in corporate governance, strategic leadership and enterprise development, skills that are essential in strengthening Ireland’s enterprise base, creating employment and supporting companies to compete internationally.

“Jim has already demonstrated strong leadership as interim chair. I look forward to working with him as Enterprise Ireland drives the growth of a vibrant, resilient, regionally balanced enterprise sector and supports companies to scale, export and embrace innovation.

“I would also like to thank Jim for his commitment and dedication during his time as Interim Chair and for his valuable contribution to the board of Enterprise Ireland.”