The Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA) has announced the appointment of Shane Ryan as its new Chief Executive. He will take up the role on 1 September 2026, succeeding Oliver O’Connor, who has led the organisation for the past 12 years.
Shane brings more than 25 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sector. Most recently, he served as General Manager of Takeda Ireland, a role he held for more than seven years as part of a 16-year career with the company. Prior to joining Takeda, he held senior positions with Lilly and Servier.
Throughout his career, Shane has been a strong advocate for Ireland’s biopharmaceutical sector and its contribution to discovering, developing and delivering innovative medicines to patients. He has built extensive partnerships across the healthcare ecosystem, working closely with healthcare professionals, policymakers and patient organisations to improve patient outcomes. Most recently, as President of IPHA, he led the successful negotiations of the four-year Framework Agreement on the Pricing and Supply of Medicines, concluded in March 2026.
Commenting on the appointment, Caitriona Duggan, Country Director, Amgen Ireland and incoming IPHA President, said:
“Shane brings a wealth of experience and leadership at a pivotal time for both the pharmaceutical industry and Ireland’s healthcare system. While the sector continues to navigate geopolitical uncertainty and evolving global trade dynamics, significant opportunities lie ahead to translate Ireland’s position as a global life sciences leader into better outcomes for patients.
The implementation of the new IPHA Agreement will support faster, fairer and more predictable access to innovative medicines. At the same time, advances in areas such as artificial intelligence, new drug development approaches and advanced therapies are transforming healthcare. Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union provides a unique opportunity to advance Europe’s competitiveness agenda, while the forthcoming National Life Sciences Strategy will help shape the sector’s future at home.
Shane’s appointment therefore provides continuity, stability and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our industry. His proven leadership and commitment to partnership working will ensure IPHA continues to champion innovation, competitiveness and improved patient care. I look forward to working closely with him in his new role.”
ENDS
About Shane Ryan
A native of Co. Limerick, Shane attended St Munchin’s College and holds 3rd level qualifications in Chemistry and Business from Trinity College Dublin and UCD Smurfit Business School respectively.
