After 32 years of dedicated service and unwavering commitment to excellence, Colm Mc Colgan, the ERNACT network General Manager has announced his well-deserved retirement.
Throughout his illustrious career, Colm has been designing and delivering international digital transformation projects across a variety of European innovation programmes and inspiring the network (staff, International Management Committee members and partners) to new heights of success and innovation. His vision, always ahead of the game, and dedication have left an unforgetable mark on the network and in the digital transformation sector for European cities and regions.
Under Colm's stewardship, always fostering a culture of collaboration and achievement, our network has achieved numerous milestones. From reviewing the implications for the ERNACT member regions’ innovation and policies of the unprecedented deployment of emerging digital technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), to anticipating the core of community, business and innovation. Colm has guided member regions to pilot AI and related disruptive technologies for public service delivery and to study its involvement for European regional innovation policies.
A farewell celebration in honour of Colm was held on the 8th of September, where colleagues, friends, and well-wishers had the opportunity to express their appreciation and bid farewell to a leader who has left an indelible mark on the organisation. Colm expressed gratitude for the support of his colleagues, stating, "It was a pleasure working with the Board and International Management Committee members. I have always found them to be wise, providing very good governance, and that is probably the reason why we have been so successful. I would also like to thank my staff. To be honest, the job was easy with the staff. Very dedicated professional people and without that, we wouldn't have been able to achieve the success that I talked about". Colm also thanked the support received from the wider developement community in the North-West of Ireland during these three decades. According to him, one of the greatest strengths is having different organisations working and collaborating together. He highlighted how important is to always talk to people. "So, once again, I really appreciate everybody coming today and I will remember you. Thank you very much", he concluded.
Colm's retirement marks the end of an era. However, ERNACT is committed to building upon the foundation laid by him and will continue to uphold the values and principles that have become synonymous with his leadership. As Colm embarks on this new chapter of life, the whole ERNACT network extends its heartfelt thanks and best wishes for a retirement filled with relaxation, adventure, and well-deserved leisure.
Colm, we wish you all the happiness and fulfilment in the years ahead!