In an email shared with staff this evening and seen by the Irish Independent, the board confirmed Mr Jacobs will no longer serve as chief executive.
The message was sent to all DAA employees this evening around 9pm from the DAA Chief People Officer Siobhan Griffin.
Mr Jacobs was understood to be considering his legal options amid escalating tensions at the top of the airports operator, including a potential move to unseat him.
The DAA’s board last week appointed another of the airport operator’s senior managers, Nick Cole, to the newly created role of Deputy CEO without clarifying how he’ll work with the group CEO.
The email said: “As we come towards the end of a very busy and successful time for our group, the board of DAA has asked me to convey its sincere thanks for all your hard work and commitment throughout the year.
Kenny Jacobs
Today’s News in 90 Seconds – Tuesday, December 23
“We end 2025 with record passenger numbers across all our airports, both in Ireland and overseas, and with strong performing airport retail and international consultancy businesses.
“This was achieved during a period of intense scrutiny and challenge at a corporate level. We recognise that the speculation and commentary surrounding our CEO and board has been unsettling, not least when family and friends are asking you questions that you cannot answer.
“The board has asked me to share with you today that our CEO will take some time out of the business. In combination with the DAA executive, the recent appointment of Nick Cole as Deputy CEO ensures there will be continuity of leadership throughout this period.
“The board has also asked me to express its continued confidence in daa as an organisation and in our people. The smooth running of our airports this busy Christmas period is testament to your professionalism and dedication.
“We know a lot of you will be sacrificing time at home with your families to be at our airports making it a great experience for the millions of people coming home for the holidays. Thank you for everything you do.”
A planned €1m exit package for Mr Jacobs, negotiated in September following mediation, was deemed off the table. It would have meant him leaving the role in January. The former Ryanair executive is just three years into a seven-year term at the DAA.
The package needed to be signed off by Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien and Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers, which never happened.
Mr Jacobs had accepted an invitation to appear before the Oireachtas transport committee on January 21 to discuss governance issues at the DAA.