EirGrid Group has announced the appointment of Mark Foley as the group's new chief executive officer. Foley has significant senior management experience in the private, multinational and commercial semi-state sectors. He joins EirGrid Group from Coillte where he is currently the managing director of the land solutions business and previously held the role of managing director of Coillte Enterprise. Prior to Coillte, he was director of capital programmes at Dublin Airport Authority. Commenting on Mr Foley’s appointment, the chairman of EirGrid Group, John O’Connor, said: “On behalf of the board, I am delighted to announce the appointment of Mark Foley as chief executive of EirGrid Group following a competitive recruitment process. "Mr Foley is exceptionally well experienced and qualified to lead the organisation through an unprecedented time of change in the energy sector. He brings a wealth of expertise in strategy development and implementation, innovation, infrastructure development and renewable energy. He has the experience and skillsets to fulfil this demanding role to a very high standard in challenging times. "Mr Foley understands the critical role that the EirGrid Group plays in developing, operating and managing the power system and the electricity market across the island of Ireland. I am confident he will build relationships with our key stakeholders to deliver for the benefit of consumers, stakeholders and communities on the island of Ireland.” Foley will take up the role on June 25, 2018. He succeeds Fintan Slye who stepped down late last year to join the National Grid UK.