New chair announced for Into Kildare tourism body

Kildare County Council has welcomed the appointment of David Kelly as the new Chairperson of Into Kildare, the official tourist board for County Kildare. 

A native of Athy, Co. Kildare, David brings a wealth of experience and a distinguished record of leadership to this important role.  

A Commerce graduate of University College Dublin, he qualified as a Chartered Accountant with Deloitte in 1992 before embarking on a distinguished career where he has held a variety of Finance and Management roles. 

In 2012, David was appointed CEO of FBD Hotels & Resorts, where he led the successful transfer of ownership to Farmer Business Developments plc in 2015. Under his stewardship, the group has expanded and strengthened its hospitality and leisure portfolio across Ireland and Spain.  

Beyond his professional commitments, David maintains a strong personal interest in horse racing, bloodstock and the arts. 

Speaking on behalf of Kildare County Council, Sonya Kavanagh, Chief Executive, congratulated David on his appointment and highlighted the value of his leadership experience to Into Kildare. “David Kelly’s deep roots in Kildare, combined with his proven record of strategic leadership, make him an excellent choice as Chairperson for Into Kildare. We look forward to working closely with him in the years ahead.” 

Kildare County Council remains committed to supporting the development and sustainability of Kildare’s tourism offering and works closely with Into Kildare to continue to maximise the tourism potential of County Kildare. 

READ NEXT; Kildare planners block proposed solar farm. 

Speaking about his appointment as Chairperson of Into Kildare, David Kelly said; “I am delighted to take on the role of Chair of Into Kildare, my home county.  I look forward to working closely with my new Board colleagues to continue the great progress made in the development of tourism in the county.’’  

Welcoming the appointment, Aine Mangan, CEO Into Kildare added; “I am delighted to welcome Mr David Kelly to Into Kildare. David brings valuable insight, strong commitment and a genuine passion for tourism in County Kildare. I very much look forward to working closely with him as we continue to grow and strengthen the county’s tourism offering, ensuring Kildare’s story is shared and recognised not only at a national level but also on the international stage.”