New ASA president announced

She currently works as an agricultural development manager with Bank of Ireland covering the South East and Midland regions, supporting farmers and helping devise and implement the bank’s agri strategy. She was part of the founding committee of Dairy Women Ireland (DWI), sits on the Audit sub-committee of the ICBF Board and was previously Treasurer of ASA.

Ms Maher comes from a family steeped in agriculture. Her father, Philip Maher, was also an Agricultural Science graduate and a former ASA President from 1998-1999, when Susan was in her final year in college. She now lives outside Clonmel, Co Tipperary, with her husband Will and children, Robert and Heather.

Commenting, Ms Maher said: “Farming and agriculture are part of my DNA and upbringing. As a child, I notoriously referred to my dad’s profession as an "Agricultural Survivor" whilst he was an agri advisor.

"Indeed, those of us working in the industry and as farmers are all Agricultural Survivors. Agriculture is the most resilient industry in the world, and I am very confident that together with scientific advancements and working collaboratively with farmers, industry and consumers that we can overcome any challenges and continue to strengthen our industry. It is the honour of my career to step up to the role of the Presidency of the Agricultural Science Association, and I look forward to giving it my all during the year ahead.”

Outgoing ASA President Niamh Bambrick said: “I hand over the presidency with immense pride and confidence in Susan Maher. I look forward to continuing to work along with Susan, support her as many past presidents have done for me and celebrate the association's future successes under her leadership.”