Caroline Bocquel is stepping down in November, after almost three years leading Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), to take on a new role as head of Fáilte Ireland.
"This is the right thing to do for the preservation of sustainable fisheries in our inshore waters," said Irish Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
Irish Government's updated €275.4 billion National Development Plan includes continued support for harbours, as well as broader coastal and agri-food infrastructure.
New reports published by Ireland's seafood development agency BIM show increasing importance of seafood processing as an economic driver for the country's 10 principal port communities.
Five young chefs will embark on programme with seafood producers along Ireland's west coast, which includes expert mentorship from a Michelin-starred chef.