The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) is delighted to confirm the appointments of Deirdre Ardagh as General Counsel and Governance Director and Michael Murray as Finance Director, who will both join the FAI Senior Leadership Team.

Ardagh is an accomplished legal and compliance executive with extensive experience in corporate governance, regulatory strategy, public law and enterprise risk management. 
 
Ardagh joins the Association following senior in-house leadership roles within the telecommunications sector, where she advised senior leadership on governance architecture, regulatory compliance frameworks, policy engagement and strategic risk oversight.
 
In her previous capacity in Three Ireland, Ardagh served as Data Protection Officer and Senior Regulatory Counsel, representing the organisation in engagements with Government departments, regulators and industry bodies. She played a central role in shaping policy engagement, overseeing regulatory compliance programmes and managing complex regulatory matters.
 
Earlier in her career, Ardagh practised as both a barrister and a solicitor and was a Partner in a Corporate & Commercial practice, advising on governance structures, regulatory obligations, commercial transactions and data protection compliance.
 
As General Counsel and Governance Director, Ardagh will lead the FAI’s legal and governance functions, advising the Board and executive leadership on compliance, integrity and risk, and supporting the continued strengthening of the Association’s institutional framework and long-term strategic development.
 
Murray brings experience in financial leadership, operational management, and strategic planning, most recently serving as Chief Operations Officer at Sport Ireland Campus. His background includes leading major organisational transformations, implementing modern financial systems and controls, and supporting senior leadership teams in delivering long‑term strategic goals.
 
Murray will play a key role in strengthening the Association’s financial governance, enhancing reporting and planning processes, and supporting the continued development of the organisation. He will work closely with teams across the Association, where his collaborative approach and leadership experience will help with the continued growth in key areas.
 
FAI CEO David Courell said: “We are delighted to strengthen our Senior Leadership Team by welcoming both Deirdre and Michael to the Association. They are two highly-skilled individuals who will bring the type of experience and expertise that will help us continue our good work around governance and consolidate our financial footing in what is a key period for Irish football.”