Ms Cahill, who previously served as a WRC board member from 2015 to 2021, has over 20 years’ experience across all aspects of HR, particularly in the areas of strategic change and transformation.

She joins the WRC from healthcare company UPMC, where she held the position of director of human resources.

She holds a BA in human resource management and a MSc in human resource strategies from Dublin City University (DCU).

Announcing her appointment, enterprise, trade and employment minister Simon Coveney said: “I am delighted to welcome Audrey to her new role as director-general of the WRC, a very important position in our industrial relations mechanism.

“I think Audrey’s experience in this area will be hugely beneficial and her stewardship will ensure that the WRC continues to deliver top quality mediation, adjudication and workplace relations services.”

Neale Richmond, minister of state for business, employment and retail, added: “I want to wish Audrey every success in her new role and I look forward to working closely with her.

“Audrey comes to the position with a wealth of experience that will ensure the WRC can continue to protect workers’ rights and ensure that Irish workplaces are productive and fair for workers and employers alike.”