New leadership roles confirmed at progressive Mayo development company
South West Mayo Development Company (SWMDC) has announced the election of John Cannon as chairperson and Donna Hyland as vice-chairperson following a meeting of the board of directors.
John Cannon, who previously served as vice-chairperson, has been a member of the SWMDC board since 2024.
A native of Islandeady and lifelong volunteer, he currently serves as chairperson of Mayo Community Futures and Islandeady Community Alert.
John is a former employee of a large local healthcare company, where he held responsibility for purchasing and supplier management, leading teams and managing multi-million-euro budgets throughout his career.
Bringing significant experience in community development, strategic leadership and financial oversight, John is looking forward to supporting SWMDC as it continues its next phase of development and growth.
Alongside John, Donna Hyland has been elected to the role of vice-chairperson.
A resident of Manulla and a member of the SWMDC board since 2021, Donna currently chairs the company's audit, finance and HR committee.
Donna is the ICTU (Irish Congress of Trade Unions) nominee to the board and is also a member of the Mayo County Council Economic and Enterprise SPC.
Donna brings a wealth of experience and commitment to the vice-chairperson role and will work closely with John and the board in supporting the company's ongoing progress.
Commenting on his appointment, John said: "I am honoured to have been elected chairperson of SWMDC and would like to thank my fellow board members for their confidence in me.
"SWMDC plays a vital role in supporting communities, businesses, and individuals throughout the region, and I look forward to working with the board, management, and staff as we continue to build on the organisation's strong foundations and deliver positive outcomes for the communities we serve.
"I acknowledge the outstanding contribution of outgoing chairperson Thomas Fitzpatrick. Thomas has provided strong leadership to SWMDC during his tenure and has been a passionate advocate for rural communities.
"His work extended beyond SWMDC through his role as chair of the National Local Development Companies Network, where he represented and championed the interests of local development companies across the country.
"On behalf of the board, I thank Thomas for his commitment, dedication and service, and I look forward to building on the legacy he leaves behind."
Commenting on her appointment, Donna said: "With five years on the SWMDC board, I have seen firsthand the positive impact that the company has on communities and individuals across the region.
"I look forward to working closely with John as we continue to strengthen the organisation, support local development and ensure that SWMDC remains responsive to the evolving needs of our area.”
Sabina Trench, CEO of SWMDC, welcomed the appointments.
She said: "Both John and Donna bring valuable experience to their respective roles, and I look forward to working closely with them in the months and years ahead.
"I acknowledge the dedication of our board of directors, who give their time, expertise, and energy on a voluntary basis to guide and support the work of SWMDC. The strength of SWMDC lies in the breadth of experience, local knowledge, and commitment of our board members.
"We are very fortunate to benefit from their leadership and passion for local development in its broadest form."
The board, management, and staff of SWMDC wish John and Donna every success in their new leadership roles and look forward to working with them in advancing SWMDC’s work, which is based on the fundamental principle that our interactions with people and communities should be empowering, enriching and energising.