Jim Shaw has been elected as the new president of the Irish Football Association (IFA).

The retired businessman and long-serving County Antrim FA delegate takes the helm at a crucial juncture in the Northern Ireland national association's history as it gears itself towards the future in terms of installations and infrastructures.

"This is a vital period the IFA is entering," he said. "Much work lies ahead and everyone wants to see the association progress. The Irish Football Association has changed over the last 10 years more than anyone could have imagined."

One of Mr Shaw's main priorities is to continue growth and progress in the three levels of football in Northern Ireland – grassroots, domestic and international. "I believe there are a lot of good things happening within the IFA," he said, "and my aim is to continue fostering and promoting association football in Northern Ireland. That will be the theme and focus for the association moving forward now."