IRELAND/INTERNATIONAL. The Board of daa has appointed John Coleman as Chief Executive Officer for a seven-year term, effective early in 2027.
Coleman joins the Irish state-owned airport and travel retail group from the Land Development Agency (LDA), where he has served as CEO since 2018.
He will lead a business with airport, travel retail and aviation interests across 15 countries, including Dublin and Cork airports, global travel retailer Aer Rianta International (ARI), and aviation consultancy and investment arm daa International.
The appointment comes as daa advances its long-term development plans for Dublin and Cork airports, following what the company described as a record-breaking performance in 2026.
Coleman established the LDA as one of Ireland’s leading housing development organisations, overseeing its growth to more than 300 employees and €8.75 billion in capital capacity.
Previously, he served as Chief Financial Officer of Ireland’s National Asset Management Agency, having joined the organisation in 2011.
He is a University College Dublin graduate and chartered accountant.
daa Chairman Gary Owens welcomed the appointment following what he described as a comprehensive selection process, highlighting Coleman’s experience of working with commercial organisations on behalf of the Irish state, developing teams and navigating complex planning and regulatory systems.
Owens said, “His proven track record of engaging with commercial organisations on behalf of the Irish state and seeking innovative solutions that address Ireland’s national needs is especially relevant, as is his experience of building and developing teams.
“His familiarity with navigating complex planning and regulatory systems will also be of great value to daa as we progress our plans for the long-term development of Dublin and Cork airports.”
Owens also thanked Nick Cole for serving as Deputy CEO alongside his responsibilities as CEO of daa International.
Coleman said he was joining daa at a pivotal stage in its development, underlining the group’s contribution to Ireland’s economic growth and international connectivity.
He added, “I feel privileged to be joining the talented and dedicated team at daa as we unlock the next phase of growth, strengthen our position as a world-class airports and international aviation business, and continue connecting Ireland with opportunity for decades to come.” ✈
