EirGrid chief Cathal Marley takes on new role as DCU chancellor
Cathal Marley, CEO of EirGrid, and newly appointed as chancellor of DCU.
Cathal Marley, chief executive of EirGrid, has been appointed as chancellor of Dublin City University.
Mr Marley succeeds Brid Horan, who has served two terms as DCU's chancellor since 2021.
He was deputy chair of the DCU governing authority and chair of its audit committee from 2021 to 2025 and has been a member of the DCU audit committee since 2016. He is also currently chair of Swim Ireland.
Mr Marley, a Donegal native and DCU graduate, was appointed CEO of EirGrid Group in April 2025, overseeing its strategic planning for Ireland’s long-term electricity needs. He is passionate about renewable energy and sustainability and delivering a cleaner energy future.
Mr Marley has over 25 years’ experience in utilities and infrastructure, having worked in senior roles across the electricity, water and gas sectors.
Mr Marley said: “It’s an honour to take up the position of chancellor at DCU. I have seen first-hand over the past four years as a member of the governing authority the impact of DCU's teaching and research on stakeholders and on issues of global concern.
“In the context of my role in EirGrid, I’m acutely aware of the importance of a strong pool of talent coming from third-level institutions like DCU to support the growth of Ireland’s energy sector and the delivery of new infrastructure.”
The chancellor leads DCU’s governing authority to ensure good governance, integrity and accountability across the university, exercising oversight of the university’s strategic direction and ensuring its successful implementation.
The role also includes ceremonial and ambassadorial duties, including the conferring of degrees at graduation ceremonies.
DCU president, Professor Dáire Keogh, said: “Cathal will bring invaluable insight, energy, and experience to the leadership of DCU. As a graduate, he understands the unique character, contribution, and responsibilities of DCU to Irish society.
“He has a distinguished record of leadership, governance, and service, while his commitment to sustainable and renewable energy at a pivotal time for the country is exemplary. I am delighted to welcome Cathal as chancellor as we drive our mission to transform lives and societies.
“I would also like to thank Cathal’s predecessor, Brid Horan, for her outstanding commitment as chancellor over the last four years.”
