Former Laois Chamber CEO takes up new role

Former CEO of Laois Chamber of Commerce Bernie Everard has taken up a new role as the Midlands Food and Drink Network Manager .

Bernie has a broad background within the food industry, and will continue to utilise her connections to promote food and drink businesses across the region. 

“With a background as CEO of SPADE Enterprise Centre, I led the €3 million co-working Shared Kitchen capital project. In my previous role as CEO of Laois Chamber, I also bring with me a wealth of experience in leadership, innovation, and collaboration," said Bernie. 

The businesswoman has also worked extensively in the food and pharma sectors and has 10 years’ experience as a business owner in the Irish craft and design sector. T
 “Now, as I step into my new role as the Midlands Food and Drink Network Manager, I’m excited to leverage my experience to support and grow a strong and vibrant network for the food and drinks sector across the Midlands region. Looking forward to this new chapter!” 

Earlier this summer, MidlandsIreland.ie officially launched its Food and Drink Directory. The online directory presents more than 100 food and drink businesses from across the Midlands region of Ireland. The directory is a result of the Midlands Food and Drink Strategy, which is aimed at promoting indigenous consumption, exports, and visitor engagement through education, marketing, and business support. The comprehensive directory celebrates the rich culinary heritage and diverse offerings of the Midlands region and features over 100 local producers from across Laois, Longford, Offaly and Westmeath.

 With Bernie now on board, the mission is to create a unified movement to elevate the sustainability, excellence, visibility, pride, and economic impact of the Midlands food and drink proposition. Bernie can be contacted here: beverard@laoiscoco.ie.