Letterkenny Chamber of Commerce has elected Karoline Sweeney of Castle Grove Country House Hotel as its new President.
The Presidential Chain was formally handed over at the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting held this week.
Karoline is Managing Partner of the family-owned, award-winning four-star Castle Grove Country House Hotel, overlooking Lough Swilly. She brings significant leadership experience in hospitality, both internationally and locally, having spent 17 years in New York building her career before returning to Donegal in 2016 to lead the next chapter of the family business.
A long-standing and active member of Letterkenny Chamber, Karoline has previously served as Treasurer and as Chair of the Membership and Research & Development Committee. She has also played an important role in strengthening links between the Chamber and the wider business and food community across Donegal.
On taking up the role, Karoline said:
“It is a great honour to be elected President of Letterkenny Chamber. I am proud to represent such a vibrant and ambitious business community. Letterkenny plays a pivotal role in the economic success of Donegal and the wider North West region, and I look forward to working with our members, the Chamber Board and stakeholders to continue the strong work that has been carried out over many years.”
On handing over the Chain of Office, outgoing President Jimmy Stafford welcomed Karoline to the role and said:
“It has been a real privilege to serve as Chamber President over the last year. It has been a very busy and rewarding time. I have been supported by a fantastic group of people, and I know they will all be there for Karoline. I would like to wish her every success in the role. Karoline brings tremendous energy and commitment, and we are fortunate to have her. She will be a huge asset to our Chamber going forward.”
Karoline has outlined her commitment to enhancing member engagement, supporting business growth, and ensuring that Letterkenny Chamber remains a strong voice for enterprise at regional and national level. She is particularly passionate about supporting local businesses, promoting innovation, and strengthening Donegal’s reputation as a leading destination for business, retail, hospitality and food tourism.
The Chamber also elected its Council for 2026/27. The Council consists of representatives from a wide variety of business sectors and meets monthly to guide the policy direction, initiatives and activities of the organisation.
Chamber Council 2026/27:
President – Karoline Sweeney (Castle Grove Country House Hotel);
Past President – Jimmy Stafford
Brian McCormick (Brian McCormick Sports);
Gerard McCormick (Magees Pharmacy);
Leonard Watson (Watson Menswear);
Michael Margey (ATU);
Bernard Gallagher (CBM Signs);
Kristine Reynolds (Reynolds & Associates);
Sean Quinn (Highland Radio);
Tanya Russell (Boyle Construction);
Enda Mulligan (PTSB);
Johnny Loughrey (JT Physio);
Kevin McElhinney (VP McMullin)
Shane McGee (FM Services Group);
Chantelle Grant (Century Complex);
Karl Tonna (PGIM)
