Aurivo Co-op has confirmed the appointment of a former Dairygold Co-op chief financial officer (CFO) as its new chief executive.

JP McGrath will take over as the new Aurivo CEO from late September, succeeding Donal Tierney, who will retire following a 15-year career with the co-op, including seven years as chief executive.

Aurivo said McGrath is an experienced senior executive with an extensive background in the food, agri-business, renewable energy and manufacturing sectors.

He has held senior financial, commercial and operational leadership roles with Dairygold, Bord na Móna, Norbrook Laboratories and Aryzta.

Most recently, McGrath served as CFO of Dairygold, where he helped develop that processor's longer-term strategic plans. He left the role in November last year.

Previously, during five years as CFO and chief operating officer (COO) of Bord na Móna, he played a central role in the transformation of the company from a peat-based business into a renewable energy organisation.

He also held the position of CFO at Norbrook Laboratories.

Earlier in his career, McGrath spent 11 years with Aryzta where he held a number of senior leadership positions, including managing director of Aryzta Bakeries Europe and Asia Pacific, where he was based in Switzerland and had responsibility for a €1.1 billion division operating across 14 countries.

He is a chartered accountant and holds a Bachelor of International Commerce, with French, from University College Dublin (UCD).

Commenting on McGrath's appointment, Aurivo Co-op chairperson Cathal Garvey said: "On behalf of the Board of Aurivo, I am delighted to welcome JP McGrath as our new chief executive. 

"JP brings extensive leadership experience, together with a proven track record in business transformation, operational management, strategic development and financial performance," Garvey added.

He said: "His broad experience across the food, agri-business and energy sectors will be of considerable value to Aurivo as we continue to develop the co-op and deliver for our members, employees, customers and communities."

The Aurivo chair also thanked Donal Tierney for his tenure in the CEO role.

"During his seven years as chief executive, Donal has led the organisation with integrity, dedication and a clear focus on the long-term interests of the co-op and its members. We wish Donal and his family every happiness for the future," Garvey said.

Speaking about his appointment, McGrath said: "I am honoured to have been appointed Chief Executive of Aurivo, a co-operative with a proud heritage, a clear commitment to its members and an important role in the communities it serves.

"I look forward to working with the board, the leadership team, employees, members and customers to build on the strong foundations established under Donal’s leadership and to support the continued development and long-term success of the Co-op," the incoming CEO added.