After more than two decades with Tourism Ireland, almost 14 of them as Chief Executive, Niall Gibbons has announced his decision to step down in April.

“Being CEO of Tourism Ireland has been an honour and a privilege,” Gibbons said in a statement.

“I started with the company just after 9/11 and tourism has weathered many challenges since then, including COVID-19. As we approach the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, which gave rise to Tourism Ireland, the time is right for a new challenge,” Gibbons added.

Tourism Ireland chairman Christopher Brooke said Ireland’s international reputation as a highly desirable tourism destination had grown significantly over the years of Gibbons’ tenure.

“I would like to thank Niall for his outstanding leadership and commitment to tourism over the last 21 years,” he said. “Tourism Ireland has been one of the great success stories of the Belfast Agreement, demonstrating that compromise and goodwill can build a better future for all of us.”

The board of Tourism Ireland will hold an international open competition for a new chief executive.

“I want to thank everyone for all the support I have received over the last 21 years,” Gibbons said. “I wish the staff of Tourism Ireland and the tourism industry well in 2023 and beyond.”