Liam Herlihy will step down as Chairman of Glanbia in 2015. He has been chairman of both Glanbia co-op and plc since 2007, and presided over significant structural change and unprecedented growth of the company.

Herlihy joined the board in 1997, quickly rising to vice-chairman four years later. He has worked closely with both previous CEO John Maloney and current incumbent Siobhan Talbot.

Herlihy was a strong supporter of the de-merger in 2010 that sought to separate Dairy Ireland away from the global plc and back into full co-op ownership. The proposal was narrowly defeated, but the group continued to grow from strength to strength, powered by the dynamic nutritions business. In 2012, a second proposal saw the co-op support the creation of a joint venture to deal with dairy expansion and the development of Belview. The co-op ceded it's majority shareholding in Glanbia plc.

Originally from west Cork, the Herlihys moved to Knockanore in Co Waterford, where a large family dairy farm has been established.

Liam Herlihy will be 63 on his next birthday, and as such is prevented by the rules of Glanbia from seeking a further full three year- term when his current term ends next year. He has thus announced his intention to stand down as chairman and as a board member from next May.

Glanbia plc senior Independent director John Callaghan acknowledged the contribution of Liam Herlihy. "The Chairman's depth of experience and knowledge of the Group provided strong and focused leadership during a hugely important period of transformation. Liam has made an enormous contribution to Glanbia and on behalf of the Board I would like to extend every good wish to him and his family for the future."