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Independent News & Media, the former owner of the Independent and Independent on Sunday, has named James Osborne as its new chairman.

The appointment of Osborne, a director at Ryanair, follows the retirement

after eight years

of Brian Hillery, who first announced his decision to step down in November last year but said he would stay on until a replacement was found.

Osborne was chosen after an independent search by executive recruitment company Lamarck Ltd., and replaces Hillery with immediate effect.

"

I am delighted that the board has approved James Osborne’s appointment. He brings a wealth of experience and skill to the Board," Hillery said. "I have served on the board for eight years and have greatly appreciated the support of shareholders. I have had the privilege to work alongside excellent directors and management. "After some recent challenging years for the company I am happy that this appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter in its history and I wish James well in his new role."

Osborne, a solicitor and former managing partner at A&L Goodbody, said it was "a real honour" to have been made chairman, and praised Hillery. "My predecessor Brian Hillery has successfully piloted the company with great resolve and commitment through some very difficult times and he retires from a company that is leaner, more focused and better positioned for future growth."

Osborne remains a consultant for A&L Goodbody and is currently senior independent director at Ryanair.

The appointment comes at a time of significant tension between the chief executive of the

Irish media company,

Gavin O'Reilly, and its largest shareholder Denis O'Brien, who has a 21.6 per cent stake. According to a report in the Irish Times, O'Brien's two representatives on the board voted against Osborne's appointment

.

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Written by
Joel Gunter

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