Intel, the computer chip manufacturer that employs 3,300 people in the Republic, is seeking a new Irish general manager following the promotion of Mr John McGowan, writes Jamie Smyth.
Mr McGowan, who is also head of the high-tech sector trade body ICT Ireland, has been appointed director of Intel's worldwide corporate services group. He will now spend his time between the Republic and the US.
In his new position, Mr McGowan will be responsible for all of Intel's worldwide factories, factory services and office buildings.
The US firm currently has a portfolio of 13 Fab buildings, 11 assembly test facilities and sales offices in about 50 locations.
Mr McGowan will also be responsible for the construction of new facilities. This will mean he could play an important part in a decision to restart construction on a planned new facility in Leixlip.
Intel put its $2 billion (€2.2 billion) expansion on hold this year following the downturn in the technology sector. It has said it will restart building work early next year.
An Intel spokeswoman said the firm was searching for a new general manager for the Republic. Last week Intel announced it had made 250 people redundant in the past quarter rather than the 170 previously announced.
Mr Kevin Dillon, managing director of Microsoft's European operations centre, will become the chairman of ICT Ireland.
