Chief Executive of Foyle Port Stands Down After Serving More Than Two Decades

19th August 2025

Jehan Ashmore

The chief executive of Foyle Port is standing down next year after 22 years in the role at the northwest port, which this week is to welcome two cruise ships. First to call is Island Sky from Noble Caledonia, which is to berth at Lisahally tomorrow, 20 August. Then on Thursday, there is the maiden call from Seven Seas Grandeur (above) of Regent Seven Seas Cruises with an anchorage visit off Greencastle, Co. Donegal. Credit: FoylePort-Linkedin

The chief executive of Foyle Port, Mr. Brian McGrath, is to stand down after serving 22 years at the northwest port.

McGrath will, however, remain in his role until spring 2026 and says he plans to explore new opportunities. This follows a career in driving sustained long-term growth and strategic delivery at the Derry port located downriver at Lisahally on the banks of the Foyle.

This year the port, which was established by an act of parliament in 1854, celebrates its 170th anniversary, and in the coming months a search for the chief executive's successor is expected to start.

As a former president of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, Foyle Port is placed in a secure position for the future thanks to the leadership that Brian led. This has seen him in shaping the long-term development of the organisation as a trading and utility platform and also offering significant opportunities within the marine industry along with renewable and digital sectors.

Foyle Port, which is a UK Trust Port, serves as the key marine gateway to the northwest region of Ireland and its contribution in facilitating commerce, renewable energy, and tourism.

The Irish News continues with the story.

Published in Ports & Shipping, Foyle Port

Published in Ports & Shipping

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About The Author

Jehan Ashmore

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Jehan Ashmore is a marine correspondent, researcher and photographer, specialising in Irish ports, shipping and the ferry sector serving the UK and directly to mainland Europe. Jehan also occasionally writes a column, 'Maritime' Dalkey for the (Dalkey Community Council Newsletter) in addition to contributing to UK marine periodicals.

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