Former CEO of Tesco Ireland Tony Keohane has been put forward by the FAI Nominations Committee as the new Chair of the FAI Board.

His ratification by the General Assembly is due to take place at the FAI AGM on December 10, 2023.

He takes over the role from Roy Barrett who stepped down at last week’s AGM in an anticipated departure.

Keohane has extensive experience in leading national organisations which includes his previous roles as CEO of Tesco Ireland and, subsequently, Chairman of the Tesco Ireland Board.

He has held a number of non-executive board roles including, Chair of Ervia and Repak and board member of Bord Bia.

He is currently chair of Uisce Eireann, DRSI, Circol ELT and Malone Group. He spent 37 years in the retail trade having joined Quinnsworth as a management trainee, rising to the board in 1995 and then taking up a similar position at tesco Ireland in 1997. He became CEO in 2007 and held that role for six years.

He served on the Commercial Boards of Munster Rugby from 2013 to 2019 and of trinity College Dublin from 2013 until 2022.

Originally from Cork now living in Dublin he is said to be a passionate football supporter.

Aside from a vote on his appointment the AGM will also vote on the successor to Gerry McAnaney as President, and on the changes to the constitution allowing the Board to be compliant with government demands on independent leadership and gender balance. It promises to be a whirlwind start to his role in the sport.

“I am delighted that Tony has been nominated for Chair,” said Gerry McAnaney yesterday.

“With an unparalleled track record of success, his experience and insight will be a huge asset for the FAI as we continue our ambitious plans.”

“Tony will play a central role as we grow the game by: implementing our Facilities Investment Strategy, enable every Irish person to participate in our game, allow all involved in the game to reach their full potential and inspire the nation through international success at the highest level.

“I also want to take this opportunity to thank Roy Barrett for his stellar work as Chair and for all his service to Irish football. The Association – and indeed the sport – is in a far stronger position thanks to Roy’s efforts over the last number of years and, on behalf of the FAI, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to him.”