*Mick Guinee with former Ei Electronics colleagues. Photograph: Eamon Ward
IT WAS a week that begin with receiving an honorary doctorate from the University of Limerick and one which ended with a civic reception from Clare County Council for founder and former CEO of Ei Electronics, Dr Mick Guinee.
Innovators and entrepreneurs central to creating a legacy in Shannon were remembered in Áras Contae an Chláir on Friday evening with the civic reception for Mick held following the unveiling of a bust in memory of the late Brendan O’Regan.
Mick’s contribution to the economic and social developmemt of the county was lauded at the civic reception which was attended by elected members, senior council officials, family, friends, and business leaders.
In 1988, Cork native Mick founded Ei Electronics following a management buyout of the EI Company in Shannon. Under his leadership, Ei Electronics has grown into a world-class Irish-owned multinational, specialising in fire and home safety technology. The company now boasts global sales of over €420 million, employing 1,250 people worldwide, including 1,000 in Ireland, with subsidiaries in the UK, Germany, France, the USA and Australia.
He stepped down as Ei Chief Executive Officer earlier this year but continues to play a central role as Chairman of the Board.
Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) paid tribute to Dr. Guinee’s legacy, “Mick’s contribution to Clare’s, and indeed Ireland’s, industrial landscape is nothing short of extraordinary. He nurtured a homegrown company into a global leader, creating sustainable employment and opportunities in Shannon. But beyond the balance sheets, Mick has shown what true leadership looks like, investing in people, supporting local communities, and strengthening the very fabric of our society”.
He was previously honoured by Clare County Council with a Mayoral Award in 2023 “for his support of community organisations in the Shannon Municipal District (MD) and beyond, while also providing employment in the Shannon Industrial Estate”.
