The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has appointed Deirdre Ardagh as General Counsel and Governance Director and Michael Murray as Finance Director, both joining the association's senior leadership team. The appointments form part of the FAI's continued efforts to strengthen executive structures, governance frameworks, and financial oversight.

Sport for Business reported that the appointments reflect the FAI's focus on compliance, financial governance, and long-term strategic planning.

Ardagh brings extensive legal, regulatory, and corporate governance experience from senior roles at IDA Ireland and Three Ireland, where she advised executive teams on governance architecture, regulatory compliance, policy engagement, and enterprise risk management. Most recently, she served as Data Protection Officer and Senior Regulatory Counsel at Three Ireland, representing the organisation in engagements with government departments, regulators, and industry bodies.

In her new role, Ardagh will lead the FAI's legal and governance functions, advising the board and executive leadership on compliance, integrity, and risk management whilst supporting the association's institutional framework development.

Murray most recently served as Chief Operations Officer at Sport Ireland Campus, where he supported strategic and operational development of the state facility. His background includes leading organisational change programmes, implementing financial systems and controls, and working with senior leadership teams to deliver long-term strategic objectives.

As Finance Director, Murray will strengthen the FAI's financial governance structures, enhance reporting and planning processes, and support the organisation's continued development across Irish football.

David Courell, chief executive of the FAI, said: "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."

Read the full announcement on the FAI's senior leadership appointments and governance strengthening initiatives.