Ireland has taken a new step towards making artificial intelligence more practical for companies across the country. Minister of State Niamh Smyth has appointed Shane McGibney of Kerry Group and Siobhán Noble of Carne Group as the country’s first AI Sectoral Champions.
Announced on 2 October 2026, the appointments are designed to help businesses understand how AI can be adopted responsibly, with advice shaped around the needs of different industries. The initiative is part of the Government’s National Digital and AI Strategy, Digital Ireland: Connecting our People, Securing our Future.
Why the appointments matter
Artificial intelligence is developing rapidly, but its business value depends on how effectively organisations apply it to real operational challenges. The new champions will work with Enterprise Ireland to promote practical adoption rather than treating AI as a purely technical issue.
Their responsibilities will include:
- Advocating responsible AI adoption across Irish enterprise
- Sharing sector-specific insight on opportunities and risks
- Highlighting emerging technology and business trends
- Supporting collaboration between industry and Government
- Contributing to sectoral AI roadmaps and awareness initiatives
The approach recognises that the priorities of a food and biotechnology company may differ substantially from those of a highly regulated financial services business.
Experience from Kerry Group and Carne Group
Shane McGibney is President and CEO of Biotechnology Solutions and Transformation at Kerry Group. His experience includes applying digital capabilities and AI to business challenges, innovation and value creation.
Siobhán Noble, Chief Data and AI Officer at Carne Group, brings experience from a regulated industry where governance, trust and human oversight are central to technology deployment. Her appointment highlights the importance of combining innovation with strong controls.
Both leaders are Enterprise Ireland clients. Enterprise Ireland Executive Director Mark Christal said their organisations demonstrate how AI can be integrated strategically to improve operations, efficiency and competitiveness.
What businesses can expect next
The appointments form part of a wider programme intended to increase technology adoption among Irish companies. Enterprise Ireland is also developing a targeted sectoral strategy and a new AI Adoption Roadmap for client companies.
For businesses considering AI, the emerging message is clear: successful adoption will involve more than purchasing software. Companies will need to identify useful applications, prepare employees, assess risk and establish appropriate governance.
Read more
Explore further coverage of Ireland’s technology and enterprise developments from Daily Digest.
A responsible route to competitiveness
Minister Smyth said AI could help Irish companies improve productivity, strengthen competitiveness and create new opportunities, while stressing that its impact will vary between sectors. The champion model is intended to translate national policy into guidance businesses can use.
For smaller firms, sector-led examples may make AI feel more accessible. Instead of attempting broad transformation immediately, companies can focus on defined problems such as process efficiency, customer support, data analysis or product development.
Explore more
Read more about Ireland’s digital economy and business innovation through Media Digest.
Frequently asked questions
Who are Ireland’s first AI Sectoral Champions?
They are Shane McGibney of Kerry Group and Siobhán Noble of Carne Group.
What will the champions do?
They will promote responsible AI adoption, share sector knowledge, support stakeholder engagement and contribute to AI roadmaps.
How long will the appointments last?
The voluntary appointments have an initial one-year term, with the option of renewal.
The takeaway for Irish enterprise
Ireland’s first AI Sectoral Champions are intended to turn national ambition into practical action. By combining industry experience with Government and Enterprise Ireland support, the initiative could help companies adopt AI with greater confidence, stronger governance and clearer commercial goals. For organisations tracking business news Ireland, the development signals that responsible AI adoption is becoming a central part of the country’s competitiveness agenda.
