IMRO appoints Seán Donegan as Chief Executive Officer

Seán Donegan has been announced as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Irish Music Rights Organisation (IMRO), succeeding Victor Finn.

The appointment follows an external recruitment process, with the Board of IMRO making the final decision.

Donegan is a Chartered Management Accountant with a Master's Degree in Strategic Management (Innovation). He has over a decade of experience in leadership roles with IMRO. He has been Chief Commercial Officer since 2022.

He has led the development of new international licensing partnerships, and has helped to modernise IMRO's commercial operating model. This work has led to an increase of revenue to €57.1m in 2025, and has allowed for more proceeds to go to IMRO members.

IMRO Chair Tom Dunne commented on the appointment in a statement.

"Following a rigorous recruitment process, the Board is delighted to appoint Seán as IMRO’s next Chief Executive. Seán combines strategic leadership with a serious commitment to music creators and rights holders.

"His knowledge of the organisation and the environment that we operate in will be invaluable as IMRO continues to champion the value of music and respond to the opportunities and challenges facing our sector.

"On behalf of the Board, I would also like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Victor Finn for his exceptional service and leadership. Over almost two decades, his contribution to Ireland's music community has been immense."

Donegan will work closely with current CEO Victor Finn during the transition period. He will assume the role in July 2027. Victor Finn was recently awarded with an Ivors Academy Honour for his work at IMRO over the past two decades.

Séan Donegan shared his thoughts on his new role as CEO.

"It is an honour to be appointed Chief Executive of IMRO. I see the role first and foremost as one of stewardship: protecting the rights and interests of our members and ensuring that the value of their work is recognised and fairly rewarded. IMRO has strong foundations and a clear strategy.

"On a personal level, I am grateful to Victor for his leadership and support throughout my time at IMRO. I look forward to working closely with him during the transition and building on the organisation’s achievements under his leadership."