RTB welcomes appointment of Brendan Foster as Chair - Residential Tenancies Board

RTB welcomes appointment of Brendan Foster as Chair

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Rosemary Steen, Director of the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB), has welcomed the appointment of Brendan Foster as Chair of the organisation by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD.

Mr Foster brings extensive leadership and governance experience to the RTB at a time of significant change in Ireland’s rental sector. Mr Foster has been appointed for a five-year term from 12 November 2026 to 11 November 2031. As Chair, he will lead the RTB Board as the organisation implements major legislative reforms, expands its regulatory role and continues to support a growing and evolving rental sector.

Commenting on the appointment, Ms Steen said:

“I congratulate Brendan Foster on his appointment as Chair of the Residential Tenancies Board. Brendan brings significant governance, financial and leadership expertise, as well as a strong understanding of the RTB’s role and responsibilities through his service on the RTB Board and Audit and Risk Committee.”

“As the independent regulator of Ireland’s rental sector, the RTB is operating in a period of substantial change. We continue to implement significant legislative reforms, strengthen compliance and enhance services for landlords and tenants. I look forward to working together with Brendan on these priorities as we continue to support a fair, transparent and trusted rental sector.”

Brendan Foster is a qualified Chartered Certified Accountant (FCCA) with 43 years’ experience in the professional services sector. He retired as a partner in Grant Thornton in April 2024, where he was previously Head of Advisory and Chair of the firm. He is a former President of Dublin Chamber of Commerce and is a current member of the Board of Sport Ireland.

Mr Foster was first appointed to the RTB Board in November 2024 and has served as a member and Chair of the RTB’s Audit and Risk Committee. He was previously Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee of Dublin City Council. Brendan is also Managing Director of Ferness Consulting Limited and holds non-executive director roles with the Irish Hospital Supplies Group and the Cosgrave Brothers Group.

Mr Foster succeeds Mark McManus as Chair. Mr McManus served as the Interim Chair of the Residential Tenancies Board from 24 June to 11 November 2026.

Photo: New chair Brendan Foster with RTB Director Rosemary Steen