Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) is delighted to announce the Institute’s Governing Body has approved the appointment of Dr Diarmuid O’Callaghan as their new president.

Dr Diarmuid O’Callaghan previously held the position of Strategic Lead - Education in Technological University Dublin where he took up this role in September 2021. Prior to that he was President of the Institute of Technology, Blanchardstown (September 2016-January 2019) and laterally Campus Principal in Technological University Dublin – Blanchardstown Campus (January 2019-September 2021). Dr O’Callaghan spent two years working full-time with the TU4Dublin alliance, preparing the three founding institutes for designation as the State’s first Technological University – TU Dublin. Diarmuid was Registrar of the Institute of Technology Blanchardstown (2000-2014).

Dr O’Callaghan has an undergraduate degree in Agricultural Science, a Masters’ Degree and a PhD from University College Dublin in the area of animal nutritional and reproductive physiology. 

Dr O’Callaghan said,

“I’m delighted to lead Dundalk Institute of Technology in the next chapter of its development. I look forward to working with the Governing Body, Executive Board, staff, students and stakeholders who I recognise have been fundamental in improving the lives of students and their families in the community, region and beyond. The Institute's many accomplishments has positioned DkIT at the heart of education and enterprise in the northeast. I am excited to be part of building on DkIT strengths and driving the Institute’s future ambitions.”

Commenting on the appointment Simon Harris, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science said,

"I am delighted to welcome the appointment of Dr Diarmuid O’Callaghan as President of Dundalk Institute of Technology. Dr O’Callaghan has significant experience in Higher Education and has displayed a strategic leadership record in his time in Technological University - Dublin ”

He also added,

"Dundalk has a bright future ahead of it. We want to continue to work with DKIT as it seeks TU status. I wish Diarmuid all the best and look forward to visiting soon."

Dr O’Callaghan was selected after an open competition and recruitment process, conducted by the Executive Recruitment agency Mazars. Dr O’Callaghan will take up the role of president on 3^rd January 2023. He will succeed Interim President, Dr Bob McKiernan who retires this month.