Maureen Walsh

Maureen Walsh, Managing Director of Claremorris-based DeCare, has been appointed President of Ibec, the largest representative body for Irish business and employers, for 2026-2027. She was elected by Ibec's National Council to serve as president, and succeeds Dr. Colin Hunt, chief executive officer of AIB. Operating from the west of Ireland, her appointment highlights the vital economic contribution of regional enterprises.

Walsh has established herself as a business leader with a remarkable track record as an entrepreneur and deep commitment to regional enterprise and development. DeCare, established in 1999 with headquarters in Claremorris, County Mayo, was the first to bring dental insurance to the Irish market, and Walsh serves as Managing Director of DeCare Dental. She previously served as Past Regional President IBEC West, demonstrating her sustained involvement in the organisation.

Maureen's deep roots in the local community include previously serving as a member of the governing body of GMIT (now Atlantic Technological University), sitting on the Local Enterprise Evaluations and Appeals Committee, and her role as a former chairperson of the Mayo Cancer Support Association. She holds an MBA in Marketing and Operations from University of Galway (2000-2002).

Career history

• Managing Director, DeCare Dental
• Past Regional President, IBEC West
• Member of the Governing Body of GMIT (now Atlantic Technological University)
• Local Enterprise Evaluations and Appeals Committee member
• Former Chairperson of the Mayo Cancer Support Association

What Maureen Walsh could bring to the Ibec Presidency: Walsh's background as managing director of a pioneering financial services enterprise positions her to advance innovation and accessibility in Irish business services. Her track record scaling a dental insurance provider with national reach, combined with her demonstrated commitment to regional economic development and community governance, suggests she can effectively advocate for inclusive economic growth beyond Ireland's major urban centers. Her experience navigating both corporate operations and voluntary board leadership indicates capability to bridge business interests with broader stakeholder concerns during her tenure as Ibec President.