The IBI (Independent Broadcasters of Ireland) has announced the appointment of Michael Kelly as CEO.

The organisation, former in 1989, represents the interests of Ireland’s independent radio broadcasters – and their listeners – with Government, regulatory authorities, and other stakeholders at a national and European level. Radio services by the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland members deliver a prime-time share of 70.4% of listeners. IBI are partners with Hot Press in the Irish Music Month initiative, which saw the release of the single ‘Don’t Let Go’ by Brad Heidi – winner of the A New Local Hero Award in 2023 – last week.

The membership of the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland includes two national radio stations – Newstalk and Today FM – as well as multi-regional or multi-city stations, and regional or local radio stations across Ireland, which enjoy high levels of audience share across the country.

Michael Kelly’s career to date has included roles in senior management with a range of major national organisations.

He was national spokesperson with ESB Group for several years, and Group Communications Manager with EirGrid Group in Ireland and Northern Ireland. He moves to take up this role after eight years as Manager of Communications with the Injuries Resolution Board.  A Fellow of the Public Relations Institute of Ireland and former journalist, Michael Kelly is the holder of a Masters’ in Communications and Cultural Studies from DCU.

Announcing Michael Kelly’s appointment, Independent Broadcasters of Ireland Chairperson John Purcell said: “We are delighted to appoint as Chief Executive someone of Michael’s calibre and experience. This is a crucial time for independent broadcasting, which faces challenges but contributes so much to social and economic development right across Ireland – and which needs support from the state to thrive. The Board and I believe that this appointment will provide major assistance in the development of the sector. Independent broadcasting reaches the parts of the audience nationally and regionally of Ireland that other broadcasters cannot reach, and it is deserving of recognition and investment.”

Speaking about his appointment, Michael Kelly commented: “I am very passionate about independent radio and believe it is a vital sector in terms of delivering public service content to all of our listeners. The sector delivers huge value every day across news, sports, current affairs, and entertainment and I will be strongly highlighting to stakeholders the need for practical support. While a significant amount of time and attention has been understandably put publicly into issues concerning RTE and its viability, the needs of the independent sector must not be forgotten.”

Kelly emphasised the role of the independent broadcasting sector as an employer – especially outside Dublin.

“With more than 1,200 people employed in the sector,” Michael Kelly said, "independent broadcasters make a major contribution to the economy and are by far the largest employers in the broadcasting sector outside of Dublin. Independent broadcasting is a highly responsible sector and also a very responsive one, which reflects and adapts to listeners preferences and makes a major contribution to an informed democracy. Independent radio stations have a very strong connection with their listeners. 

"I am honoured to have been appointed to this important role and look forward to working with the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland Chairperson, the Board and members to help chart the strategic future of the sector and to highlight the benefits independent radio provides nationally and regionally, and most importantly, to represent our valued listeners.”