Údarás na Gaeltachta Appoints Head of Communications and Marketing

Údarás na Gaeltachta is pleased to announce the appointment of Michelle Ní Chróinín as its first Head of Communications and Marketing. She will lead the communications team during a pivotal period in the organization’s development.

Professional Background

Michelle brings over 25 years of experience in strategic communications, media, marketing, and corporate governance. She joins from her position as Director of Strategy and Planning at the University of Galway, where she led the development of the University’s first Irish Language Strategy and its rebranding project. Previously, she served as Head of the University’s Press Office for 13 years.

Governance Experience

Michelle served on the Board of TG4 from 2012 to 2022, including a period as Interim Chair. She currently serves as Chair of Muintearas and as a Board Director of Macnas. Additionally, she is a Board Member of Music Generation Galway and a former member of University of Galway’s Governing Authority

Education

Michelle holds comprehensive academic qualifications. She has earned a Master’s Degree in Business from the Irish Management Institute (IM), along with a Master’s Degree in Media Studies from the University of Limerick and a Bachelor’s Degree in Music from University College Cork. She has also completed postgraduate qualifications in Arts Administration, Public Relations, and Project Management, along with leadership and strategy programmes from Oxford University, Advance HE (UK), and the Timoney Leadership Institute.

“As a Gaeltacht native, I am delighted to return to my roots with Údarás na Gaeltachta,” said Michelle Ní Chróinín. “The organisation is central to the cultural and economic fabric of Ireland’s Gaeltacht regions and I am very much looking forward to contributing to its ambitious vision for the future, supporting and developing our Gaeltacht regions and their vital role in Ireland’s prosperity and growth.

CEO Tomás Ó Síocháin stated: “Michelle’s extensive expertise in strategic communications, her leadership capabilities, and her deep connection to the Gaeltacht will be invaluable as we embark on this new strategic phase.”

A native of Baile Mhúirne, Co. Cork, Michelle now lives with her family in Moycullen in the Galway Gaeltacht.