Mary McMorrow stepped up into one of Irish sport’s CEO roles in January 2026, becoming Interim Chief Executive Officer of Swim Ireland following more than a decade with the organisation.
Previously Chief Operations Officer and Company Secretary, she brings extensive experience in governance, strategic planning and aquatic infrastructure development, alongside international responsibilities with European Aquatics and World Aquatics.
Her leadership in 2026 has been particularly evident in addressing Ireland’s shortage of swimming facilities. Swim Ireland’s research highlighted that there is just one public swimming pool for every 81,000 people, prompting calls for greater investment.
In September, she helped lead a joint campaign with Ireland Active seeking €1 billion for swimming and community leisure infrastructure, followed by an October conference bringing local authorities and industry partners together to explore practical solutions.
McMorrow’s influence combines organisational leadership with a determination to make swimming more accessible, sustainable and available to communities throughout Ireland. She previously appeared on this list in 2023.
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Previously named: Dr Una May, Suzanne Eade, Karen Dessain-Gelinet, Sarah Keane, Karen Coventry, Katie Taylor, Lyn Savage, Mary O’Connor, Moira Aston
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This is the 14th year we have listed 50 Women of Influence in Irish Sport. We will add new names daily through early December.
We have an open nomination process, and you can nominate potential additions until our closing date of November 10th, 2026.
Nominations for next year’s list will open in Autumn 2027.
Our definition of influence is broad and includes those making a difference in how sport is governed, managed, and brought to life. This year’s list will include CEO’s, leaders, founders, coaches, storytellers and more. To highlight those who may be less familiar, we deliberately exclude those who are still active players in their sport.
We’ll host our Annual Women in Sport Conference at Lidl HQ on Tuesday, December 1st, featuring a range of national and international speakers and a room full of inspiring guests.
To reserve your place, you can book a ticket below.
If you would like to join the Sport for Business community and see your organisation in our content, on our stages, and in the daily conversation around the commercial world of Irish Sport, email us today and let’s see what is possible.
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