Ornua appoints Kevin Toland as new chair designate

IRELAND – Ornua, Ireland’s largest exporter of dairy products and the company behind the globally recognized Kerrygold brand, has named Kevin Toland as its new chair designate. 

The announcement marks a significant transition for the cooperative as it prepares for a leadership change in May 2025. 

Toland, a seasoned executive with a strong background in food, beverage, and aviation industries, will step into the role following the departure of the current chair, Aidan O’Driscoll, who has chosen not to seek reappointment after his term ends.

According to a report by Ornua, Toland brings a wealth of experience to the board. 

He has held senior executive and non-executive director positions across multiple sectors, including a notable stint as CEO of Aryzta, a Swiss-based global bakery company, and as president of Glanbia Performance Nutrition. 

His international expertise is expected to guide Ornua through its next phase of growth, particularly as the cooperative continues to expand its presence in markets worldwide. 

The company, which reported revenues of approximately US$3.8 billion in its last financial year, relies heavily on its export business, with Kerrygold butter alone sold in over 90 countries.

O’Driscoll, who has served as chair for several years, was praised for his leadership during a period of significant milestones and challenges. 

“Aidan has been an exemplary leader, guiding Ornua with steady hands,” said Conor Galvin, CEO of Ornua, in a statement. 

His tenure saw the cooperative navigate fluctuating global dairy prices and strengthen its brand portfolio. 

Now, with Toland’s appointment, the focus shifts to building on this foundation. “I am honored to take on this role and look forward to working with the board to drive Ornua’s future success,” Toland said.

Toland’s appointment comes at a time when the dairy industry faces both opportunities and pressures, including rising production costs and evolving consumer demands for sustainable practices. 

Ornua, owned by Irish dairy farmers, plays a critical role in the sector, processing milk into butter, cheese, and other products worth millions annually. 

Toland’s strategic vision, honed through years leading multinational firms, could help the cooperative adapt to these challenges while maintaining its competitive edge.

The transition will officially take place in May 2025, when Toland assumes the chairmanship. Industry observers see this move as a signal of Ornua’s intent to blend tradition with innovation, ensuring it remains a powerhouse in the US$80 billion global dairy market. 

For now, the cooperative continues its operations under O’Driscoll’s guidance, with Toland preparing to steer the company into its next chapter.

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