Cork Marts announced on Wednesday that Jonathan O’Sullivan has been appointed the Chief Executive-Designate of Cork Marts and follows the recent announcement that current CEO, Seán O’Sullivan, intends to retire in early 2025.
Following a thorough recruitment process, 32 year old Mr O’Sullivan was chosen on November 8th. Jonathan acquired his auctioneering licence at 20 years of age and he previously fulfilled managerial roles within Cahir Mart and the group’s mart operations.
Following the announcement, Mr O’Sullivan said he was looking forward to the challenge ahead.
“I am honoured to be stepping into the role of Chief Executive at Cork Marts. Having been part of this organisation for many years, I look forward to building on our strong foundation and continuing our growth. I am committed to leading Cork Marts with the support of our dedicated team and advisors as we advance in the years ahead.”
While CEO of Cork Marts, Seán O’Sullivan, in welcoming the appointment, said he looked forward to supporting a ‘smooth transition’.
“I have been working at Cork Marts for over 30 years and working together, we have experienced transformative growth and strengthened our position as Ireland’s largest livestock auctioneers. I look forward to seeing Cork Mart’s progress under new leadership and will actively support a smooth transition for the incoming Chief Executive-Designate, Jonathan O’Sullivan.”
CONTINUED GROWTH
Over the past number of years, Cork Marts has strengthened its position as the country’s largest livestock auctioneers with centres located in Dungarvan, Cahir, Bandon, Corrin (Fermoy), Skibbereen and Macroom. In 2023, Cork Marts had record breaking mart sales of €164 million, with a €1.5 million growth in shareholders’ funds to €26.1 million. This success was driven by significant diversification of Cork Marts’ business portfolio, including the strategic use of its asset base for retail and commercial development, which generated strong income streams and strengthened the company’s position. In recent years, the development included building residential units for social housing bodies and securing planning permission for future projects, enabling Cork Marts to reinvest substantially in its core mart business.
THANKS EXTENDED
Chairperson of Cork Marts, Lyle Buttimer is now looking forward to a new chapter.
“We are deeply grateful to Sean O’Sullivan for his remarkable commitment and transformative leadership over the years, which has positioned Cork Marts as a strong and thriving organisation. We are delighted to welcome Jonathan O’Sullivan as Chief Executive-Designate, confident that he will build on this legacy and lead Cork Marts to continued success. The board fully supports Jonathan and looks forward to working together to advance our mission in the years to come.”
Seán O’Sullivan is expected to step down from his role as CEO in the early months of 2025 and Jonathan O’Sullivan will then take up the role, based at the group’s head office in Macroom.
