Deirdre has 23 years of stock exchange experience across both primary and secondary markets. She was Chief Executive Officer of the Irish Stock Exchange from 2007 to 2018, leading its transformation from a relatively small domestic equity exchange to a highly profitable plc with global specialisms, culminating in its sale in March 2018 to Euronext NV. Deirdre stepped down as CEO of Euronext Dublin in September 2018 and has held a position as an independent non-executive director & audit committee member for BlackRock iShares since April 2019.

Deirdre has a deep knowledge of EU market structure and market regulation. She was President of the Federation of European Securities Exchanges (FESE) between 2015 and 2018 and she is also a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland.

Commenting on the appointment, Niki Beattie, Chair of Aquis, said:

"Deirdre is a true expert in public market structure, regulation and products, with a particular strength in European markets. Her experience will be extremely valuable to Aquis as we continue on our journey to become the leading exchange services group in Europe. It is a testament to the growing profile of Aquis that we have been able to attract a candidate of such quality to our Board."

Deirdre Somers added:

"It is clear to me that Aquis Exchange has great potential, not only for further growth and development, but also to bring further competition, transparency and venue choice to European Markets.

“I hope that my background in steering an exchange group through a period of intense change and volatility whilst increasing its earnings and instilling a strong culture will serve Aquis well. I look forward to supporting the Company on its exciting growth trajectory."

Regulatory disclosures
In accordance with Schedule 2(g) of the AIM Rules, Deirdre Mary Somers, aged 54, holds or has held the following directorships and partnerships during the five years preceding the date of this announcement:
Current Directorships
BlackRock Alternatives Funds ICAV
BlackRock Fixed Income Dublin Funds Plc
BlackRock Funds I ICAV
BlackRock Infrastructure Funds ICAV
BlackRock Infrastructure Funds Plc
BlackRock Institutional Pooled Funds Plc
Institutional Cash Series Plc
iShares Plc
iShares II Plc
iShares III Plc
iShares IV Plc
iShares V Plc
iShares VI Plc
iShares VII Plc
Kenmare Resources Plc

Previous Directorships held in the last five years
LSE Oldco Limited
Traders In The Area Supporting The Cultural Quarter Company Limited
The Irish Stock Exchange Plc
Euronext N.V.
Federation of European Securities Exchanges