Farewell Declan, Anne Balfe Welcomed

The Tokyo American Club was the setting for a reception on July 30th to welcome Anne Balfe, the incoming Director of Enterprise Ireland in Japan. She was introduced by her predecessor Declan Collins who leaves Enterprise Ireland, after a term of eight years, to pursue new challenges in the private sector.

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Prior to heading Enterprise Ireland, Declan spent an additional eight years between the Embassy and the IDA - a total of 16 years of service to his country. Declan has served as MC of the Ireland Fund's annual Emerald Ball for six years in a row and headed the Grants Committee for the IFJ for a number of years.

Declan's wife Ikuko has also been a Board Member of IFJ for a number of years and chaired two of the most successful Emerald Balls two years in a row. Both she and Declan have committed to remain active with the IFJ in an advisory capacity even if their careers take them away from the country.

The Ireland Fund of Japan is also pleased to welcome Anne Balfe onto the Board of the Ireland Fund. The reception was attented by His Excellency Padraig Murphy, Ambassador of Ireland as well as former President of the Ireland Fund of Japan Richard Dunne. Ted Skillman, a major Emerald Ball sponsor also attended the event.