Ulster GAA appoints new Provincial Secretary and CEO

The Ulster Council of the Gaelic Athletic Association has today announced the appointment of Mr. Brian McAvoy, as the new Provincial Secretary & Chief Executive of Ulster GAA. The appointment follows the recent recruitment process to find a successor to Dr. Danny Murphy, who announced his decision to retire in August.

Dr. Murphy will continue as Chief Executive until Mr McAvoy takes up his position later in the year. During the transition period both Danny and Brian will work collaboratively together until the formal change over in February 2017.

Brian, who is a member of St. Mary’s GAC, Burren, is a former secretary of the Down County Committee and is a highly experienced GAA official.  A civil servant by profession, he has worked at the heart of government affairs in recent years and has served as Principal Information Officer in a number of government departments including The Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister and the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure.  He is currently Head of the Government Advertising Unit.

In welcoming Brian to the Ulster Council, Ulster GAA President Michael Hasson said;

“The recruitment process was extremely competitive and applications were received from a number of high calibre candidates. The Ulster Council are delighted with the appointment and look forward to working with the new Provincial Secretary. Brian comes to the role with extensive management experience in the Public Service and many years relevant experience in GAA administration at club, county, provincial and national levels.”

Commenting on his appointment Brian McAvoy said;

“I have had a lifelong passion for the GAA and I am honoured and privileged to have been appointed to this post at a time of evolution for the Association.  Ulster GAA is a great organisation which touches at the heart of community and I look forward to working with the many officials and volunteers who selflessly give of their time to foster and grow our sporting and cultural heritage.  I will also build on the tremendous outreach initiatives that Ulster GAA is delivering as we move forward in a spirit of understanding and togetherness.

“I acknowledge and commend the immense contribution of my predecessor Danny Murphy in growing the GAA in Ulster and look forward to working with him in the coming months before he formally steps down from his role.”