Horse Racing Ireland has announced the appointment of Paula Cunniffe as it’s new Director of Communications and Marketing.
Paula joins HRI from Strive Management, where she held the role of CEO for seven years. In this role, she was focused on shaping the brand message and delivering on commercial success for two brands, Mark Pollock’s motivational speaking business, and global running event Run in the Dark with 25,000 participants in 50+ cities.
Before this, Paula managed national and international communications campaigns in Department of the Taoiseach and began her career as a radio and TV producer on sports and arts documentaries.
She takes over the role from Jonathan Mullin who has moved over to become Director of Racing, in turn replacing Jason Morris who has taken on the new position of Director of Strategy. Paul Dermody remains as Commercial Director.
“We are delighted to welcome Paula on board as we implement our recently launched five-year Strategic Plan with its key focus on nurturing success and increasing participation,” said CEO Suzanne Eade.
“Paula brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to HRI, having worked in the communications and public affairs field since 2009. Paula has a proven track record in successfully developing and leading senior teams with strategic campaigns in both the public and private sectors and will have the full backing of a dedicated leadership team in HRI.”
“I am excited to join the leadership team at Horse Racing Ireland,” added Cunniffe, a long time friend of Sport for Business.
“I’ve loved working in sport throughout my career, from growing Run in the Dark over the last seven years to being on the Board of Hockey Ireland from 2019-2021.”
“I’m passionate about storytelling and look forward to working with the HRI team to tell compelling stories that engage our audience and encourage participation in horse racing.
We wish her the best of luck in this exciting new chapter of her career.
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