Garrett Harte is the new chairperson of the Donegal Dublin Business network, succeeding Paul Doyle who has stepped down from a role he has held since the group’s foundation seven years ago.
The incoming chairman is a former Editor-in-Chief of the Newstalk radio station and founder of Harte Media, an advisory communications and public affairs consultancy.
The announcement came as the DDBN revealed it will hold a special evening event in Dublin next month to mark International Women’s Day on March 6th and celebrate the contributions of Donegal women in business.
DDBN Secretary Majella Ellis, said the group was fortunate to have the Raphoe man take up the position.
She added: “This progression marks a new chapter for the DDBN. Garrett will be a strong leader with imaginative ideas on how we can flex the network to create new business connections that deliver fresh growth opportunities for our membership. We do this via an important common denominator – our pride in our county and our collective willingness to those who hail from there.”
Ms. Ellis expressed the network’s sincere gratitude to past-chairman and Managing Director of Bannon Commercial Property, Paul Doyle.
“We would like to thank Paul for his conscientious efforts and input in developing the Network in recent years. Paul, alongside Sally Anne Sherry, consultant and former Legal Counsel and Director of Bartra Capital, have together nurtured the DDBN since its establishment in 2017. We are particularly delighted they both have agreed to remain as members of our steering committee.”
Mr Harte said he was stepping into his new role with a sense of both pride and excitement. He added that the DDBN played a pivotal role in connecting Dublin-based businesses and like-minded individuals who shared a clear vision of promoting enterprise and assisting those with Donegal roots.
“The DDBN isn’t just a network; it’s a powerhouse of influence, driven by the vision of the founding committee members and ably led by Paul Doyle and Sally Anne Sherry,” Mr Harte said.
He added: “Joining this group – which has more than 350 members – offers huge opportunities for networking and collaboration. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, having access to such a diverse community of professionals provides an unrivalled network of influence. I’m looking forward to teaming up with Majella Ellis and the DDBN committee to help build on this success.”
The DDBN International Women’s Day event, a fireside chat followed by dinner, which is open to all genders – will take place at The Chop House Restaurant, 2 Shelbourne Road, Dublin 4.
The gathering will be hosted by Newstalk presenter and Ballyshannon woman Andrea Gilligan. Andrea presents the popular ‘Lunchtime Live’ show from 12-2pm weekdays on Newstalk.
Among the guest speakers will be pioneering female politician and former Tánaiste Mary Coughlan. Mary was elected chairperson of the Donegal GAA County Board in December of last year, becoming the first female to hold the position. The Inver woman was a government cabinet member with responsibility for multiple department portfolios during the lifetimes of the 29th and 30th Dáil and represented Donegal South-West as TD from 1987 to 2011. Additional participants will be announced in the coming days.
Registration is required for the International Women’s Day event, which is open to all members of all genders. Tickets can be reserved via the DDBN email donegaldublinbusinessnetwork@gmail.com
