
John Riordan (pictured) will take on the role of ISRA coordinator from January 31 following the departure of Tom Foley to Intersport UK.
Previously sales manager for Asics’ performance running department, Riordan was responsible for a number of independent retail accounts across Ireland.
He was also instrumental in setting up and managing ISRA’s shoe division.
Prior to joining Asics, Riordan worked for Aer Lingus as a senior manager responsible for activities in London, Cork and Shannon.
A keen sportsman, he is also a part-time coach with the Football Association Of Ireland.
“ISRA’s strength lies in the commitment of its members to developing the strong working relationships and ideas that exist with our current suppliers, and I will be upholding that ethos as the core of our business strategy,” says Riordan.
“I am very much looking forward to the challenge of leading ISRA and to meeting with all suppliers to the group at our January Show [17-18], at ispo in Munich and on an Individual basis over the coming months.
“We all appreciate that we face a very challenging retail environment in Ireland, but I am confident that by working even more closely together ISRA offers suppliers the best opportunity for the growth and development of their brands.”
Of the appointment of his successor, Tom Foley says: “After a very successful time creating and developing ISRA, I am delighted that the group and its business will move forward under the direction of John Riordan, whose passion for sport, knowledge of the domestic market, strong contacts and prime brand expertise will be a valuable asset to ISRA members and suppliers alike.
“I am proud that ISRA has achieved such excellent results since I established the group and confident that in John ISRA has a leader who will continue to create commercial opportunities of the highest degree.”
Details of ISRA’s new administrative address in Limerick can be found at www.isra.ie. Or for more information contact ISRA on 00 353 86 8504047.