Barnardos announces the retirement of Chief Executive, Suzanne Connolly 

After more than 40 years of dedicated service to children and families, including almost a decade as Chief Executive, Barnardos Ireland announces that Suzanne Connolly will retire on July 31st.

A qualified social worker, Suzanne devoted her career to improving the lives of children, young people and their families, championing their rights and ensuring that those facing adversity receive the support they need to thrive. Her unwavering belief that childhood lasts a lifetime, that every child deserves a safe, secure and nurturing childhood has defined both her leadership and the lasting legacy she leaves at Barnardos.

Having joined Barnardos as Director of Children’s Services in 2001 and becoming Chief Executive in 2018, Suzanne led the organisation through a period of growth and national influence. Under her leadership, Barnardos has expanded its reach to support more children, families and communities across Ireland, embedded a trauma-informed approach across its services and strengthened its position as one of Ireland’s leading voices for children’s rights through its Because Childhood Lasts a Lifetime platform.

Suzanne has been a powerful national voice on the issues that matter most to children. Throughout her tenure she consistently highlighted the lasting impact of traumatic childhood experiences, advocating for greater investment in intensive family support, educational opportunity and measures to tackle child poverty and inequality. Her thoughtful, evidence-based contributions have helped shape public policy and national debate, ensuring that the lived experiences of children and families were heard and at the heart of decision making.

Throughout her career, Suzanne has championed collaboration, recognising that meaningful change for children requires strong partnerships across government, communities, schools, health services, supporters and the wider voluntary sector.

Chair of the Barnardos Board, Paul O’Faherty, said:

“Suzanne has been an exceptional leader whose unwavering commitment to children has shaped Barnardos and influenced the wider landscape of children’s services in Ireland. She has combined compassion with courage and has never lost sight of the children and families whose lives we exist to improve.

“On behalf of the Board, I want to thank Suzanne for her contribution to Barnardos over a 25 year period. Her legacy will continue to be felt in the lives of countless children and families and in the strength of the organisation she leaves behind. We wish Suzanne every happiness and fulfilment in her retirement.”

Reflecting on her retirement, Suzanne Connolly said:

“It has been my privilege to have been CEO of Barnardos, and previously Director of Services. We are all deeply grateful for the trust placed in us by the children, young people, parents, individuals and families with whom we work. They are at the centre of our mission, shaping our purpose and driving our commitment to create lasting change.”

“I would like to acknowledged the commitment and hard work from all Barnardos’ staff and volunteers. I would also like to thank our all our funders and supporters without whom we could not do our work.”

“At its core, Barnardos is dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable children and families by delivering life-changing services and advocating for their rights and wellbeing. I know that the organisation will continue to thrive and deliver effectively on our vision and mission, keeping the needs of vulnerable children and families at the center of all we do.”

Interim CEO

Suzanne hands over the leadership of the organisation to Interim CEO, Phillip Watt. Phillip joins Barnardos with extensive experience in the community and voluntary sector leading organisations such as Cystic Fibrosis Ireland and more recently as CEO of Mental Health Reform. Philip is warmly welcomed by the organisation.