Newry’s First Derivatives names late boss Conlon’s replacement
TECHNOLOGY firm First Derivatives has appointed a new chief executive following the death of its founder last year.
The company’s chairman Seamus Keating succeeds Brian Conlon at the head of the software and consulting plc, which is based in Newry.
Mr Keating, who is from Tipperary, was appointed a non-executive director of First Derivatives in 2012 and became chairman a year later.
The firm’s non-executive director Donna Troy has now been appointed chairman.
Mr Conlon died after a short illness in July aged 53.
Mr Keating is an accountant with a background in financial technology.
He held a number of senior roles at Logica plc until its acquisition in 2012 by CGI Group.
Since 2012 he has worked with technology businesses in the private and public markets as chairman and non-executive director.
He was appointed a non-executive director of FD in December 2012 and chairman in July 2013, becoming executive chairman following Mr Conlon’s death.
Mr Keating said his role as executive chairman had given him an insight into “the high regard in which FD and our corporate culture is held”.
“I am grateful to FD’s employees who have shown immense dedication during this difficult period and to the board for its support as I take on this new role, leading FD to achieve its long-term objectives,” he added.
Mr Conlon founded the company in 1996, building it into a plc with 2,400 employees around the world.
Ms Troy said Mr Keating had become executive chairman “under the most difficult of circumstances”.
She added: “There was considerable interest in the role from well-qualified candidates.
“However, as we refined the requirements it was apparent that we already had an outstanding candidate in Seamus.
“When he signalled his desire to take on the role the board was thrilled.”