Port of Cork appoints new chief commercial officer

The Port of Cork Company has appointed Paul Hegarty as chief commercial officer.

Most recently serving as the head of the National Maritime College of Ireland, Mr Hegarty served for more than two decades in the Irish Naval Service, holding a range of senior operational and strategic roles, including as commanding officer of the LÉ William Butler Yeats.

In his new role, Mr Hegarty will lead the commercial function at the Port of Cork across all key business lines.

The role will also see him involved in advancing strategic opportunities in offshore renewable energy, supply chain resilience and port centric industrial development, in line with the Port of Cork long-term strategy.

“The Port’s corporate strategy provides a clear framework for growth, innovation and leadership in Ireland’s maritime and energy sectors,” said Mr Hegarty.

“My intent will be to deliver on these strategic objectives, driving growth across existing business lines, strengthening customer relationships, and positioning Cork as a leading hub for trade, logistics, and offshore renewable energy development.

“This is a critical area for Ireland as we work towards a net-zero society and enhanced energy security, and the Port of Cork has a central role to play in enabling that transition.”

A chartered manager with a PhD in change management, Mr Hegarty also has extensive experience in governance, strategy and policy development, stakeholder engagement and the delivery of complex organisational transformation programmes.

Ann Doherty, CEO of the Port of Cork company, said Mr Hegarty’s skillset makes him ideally suited to lead the port’s commercial function.

“Paul’s depth of experience and forward-looking approach will be instrumental as we continue to grow our business and strengthen the Port of Cork’s position as a critical gateway for trade and tourism.”