ICC Belfast Chief Executive Catherine Toolan is to leave the city to take over as Managing Director of the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Ireland’s most popular paid visitor attraction. Catherine succeeds Paul Carty who has led the Guinness Storehouse since its inception, joining as MD in its year of opening almost two decades ago.


Under his leadership, visitor numbers have increased six fold from under 300,000 to almost 1.8 million in 2019.

 Mark Sandys, Global Head of Beer, Baileys and Smirnoff, said:

“Over his time, nearly 21 million people have entered the doors of the Guinness Storehouse, including kings and queens, presidents and prime ministers, superstars and rock singers.  Regardless of who they are, Paul and his team have given each and every one the same warm welcome, as if they are visiting their home, the home of Guinness.”

 “We have all loved working with Paul whose passion, commitment, kindness and energy are inspiring to everyone. We are sad to see Paul move on after his incredibly successful tenure, but happy that he will have a well-earned retirement and no doubt, still engage with enthusiasm in the tourism sector and continue to share his wisdom. One of his biggest legacies will be the culture of customer care and employee engagement that is the hallmark of his leadership.”

Catherine Toolan will take up the role of MD of the Guinness Storehouse from the beginning of April.

A native of Sligo, Catherine has had a very successful career in the conference, events, live music and hospitality industry spanning three continents, including senior roles in Aramark, close partner of the Guinness Storehouse. She was also responsible for managing the delivery of the Athletes Village at the Beijing and London Olympic Games.

 As Chief Executive of the International Convention Centre, Belfast she has led the transformation of the organisation to compete globally, and work with key stakeholders to develop a business tourism strategy and win large business events, contributing significant economic impact to Belfast and Northern Ireland.

 Concluding, Mark Sandys said:

“We are so excited to have Catherine joining our team. She brings a wealth of experience in event and visitor experience management as we move into a new era for the Guinness Storehouse and our other brand homes.  I am looking forward to seeing Catherine’s energy, drive and vision leading this great business forward to even greater heights”.

 

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Catherine Toolan To Head Up Dublin’s Guinness Storehouse

ICC Belfast Chief Executive Catherine Toolan is to leave the city to take over as Managing Director of the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Ireland’s most popular paid visitor attraction. Catherine succeeds Paul Carty who has led the Guinness Storehouse since its