Córas Iompair Éireann (CIÉ), Ireland’s state-owned public transport provider, has appointed Stephen Kent as its new chief executive officer for a seven-year term. Kent succeeds Lorcan O’Connor, who has moved to Transport Infrastructure Ireland.

CIÉ oversees nationwide bus and rail operations, including Dublin Bus, Bus Éireann, Irish Rail, Rosslare Europort, and the travel agency CIÉ Tours, serving millions of passengers annually.

Kent previously led Bus Éireann as CEO from 2018 to 2025, implementing an organisational transformation programme that included Ireland’s first fully electric regional city bus network, developed in collaboration with the National Transport Authority and the Department of Transport. Prior to that, he was chief commercial officer at Bus Éireann and held private sector roles at Waterford Crystal and C&C, owner of Bulmers and Tennents.

Aidan Murphy, chair of the CIÉ Group board, said: “Stephen contributed significantly to the CIÉ Group during his time in Bus Éireann and I know he will use that experience and his undoubted skillset to advance the ambitious plans in the CIÉ Group and the public transport sector more broadly.”

Speaking after his appointment, Kent said: “I am delighted to join and lead CIÉ at such an exciting period of growth for public transport in Ireland.” He added that the new strategic plan would prioritise citizen-focused services, climate action, sustainability, property asset development, and shared services, while strengthening the group’s financial position to support future investment.

With Kent at the helm, CIÉ aims to enhance operational efficiency, modernise fleet and rail services, and drive sustainable investment across Ireland’s public transport infrastructure.

Read the full article to explore CIÉ’s leadership changes and strategic plans for public transport in Ireland.

(Photo Credits to Córas Iompair Éireann)