The Port of Cork Company has announced the appointment of Paul Hegarty (pictured) as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), a key executive role responsible for leading the organisation’s commercial strategy and delivering on the ambitions set out in the Port’s Corporate Strategy for sustainable growth, trade expansion and energy transition.
This appointment comes at a critical point in the Port of Cork’s development as it progresses strategic priorities, including enhancing its position as a national trade gateway, expanding commercial capacity and enabling Ireland’s offshore renewable energy sector.
Paul brings extensive executive leadership experience across the maritime and public service sectors, with a strong record in commercial growth, investment delivery and strategic transformation in complex, high-value environments.
Most recently, Paul served as Head of the National Maritime College of Ireland, where he led a significant programme of commercial and strategic expansion aligned with national maritime and offshore energy priorities.
Paul previously served for over two decades in the Irish Naval Service, holding a range of senior operational and strategic roles, including Commanding Officer of the L.E. William Butler Yeats, where he led complex operations, managed substantial budgets, and delivered mission-critical services.
A Chartered Manager with a PhD in Change Management, Paul has extensive experience in governance, strategy and policy development, stakeholder engagement, and the delivery of complex organisational transformation programmes.
In his new role, Paul will lead the Port of Cork’s commercial function across all key business lines, while advancing strategic opportunities in offshore renewable energy, supply chain resilience and port-centric industrial development, in line with the Port’s long-term strategy.
Ann Doherty, CEO of the Port of Cork Company, said: “We are delighted to welcome Paul to the executive leadership team. His exceptional track record in leadership, strategic delivery and maritime operations makes him ideally suited to lead our 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.”
Commenting on his appointment, Paul Hegarty said: “I am delighted to join the Port of Cork Company at a time of significant opportunity and strategic ambition. The Port’s Corporate Strategy provides a clear framework for growth, innovation, and leadership in Ireland’s maritime and energy sectors. 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.”
This appointment reflects the Port of Cork Company’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its leadership team and delivering sustainable growth across all areas of its business operations.