The Adoption Authority of Ireland appoints Fiona Ryan as Chief Executive Officer
The Board of the Adoption Authority of Ireland (AAI) has announced the appointment of Ms. Fiona Ryan as its Chief Executive Officer following a public recruitment process conducted by the Public Appointments Service.
Ms. Ryan will take up the role in August and brings significant leadership, strategy development, implementation and regulatory experience to the position.
Speaking about the appointment, Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley said: “I would like to congratulate Ms. Fiona Ryan on her appointment as Chief Executive Officer of the Adoption Authority of Ireland. Ms. Ryan brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this important role, which will support the Authority in its vital work in relation to adoption, as well as the provision of birth information and tracing services. Her appointment comes at an important time for adoption services in Ireland, and I look forward to its continued work in delivering these important services and supports. I wish Ms. Ryan every success in her new position.”
John McDaid, Chairperson of the Adoption Authority of Ireland said, “The Board is delighted to welcome Fiona Ryan as Chief Executive Officer. Her experience in leadership, advocacy and public service will be invaluable as the Authority continues to deliver on its responsibilities and support those who engage with our services.”
Mr. McDaid continued “I would also like to acknowledge and thank our Interim CEO, Philip Crosby, for his leadership and careful stewardship. On behalf of the Board, I greatly appreciate his contribution during this period of transition.”
Speaking about her new role, Fiona Ryan said, “My thanks to Minister Foley, to the Board of the Adoption Authority of Ireland and Chairperson John McDaid. The Authority has a vital role in relation to adoption, as well as the provision of birth information and tracing services – all of which profoundly impact people’s lives. I am conscious of the responsibility and trust placed in me as the new Chief Executive of the Adoption Authority of Ireland. I look forward to working in partnership to deliver on these responsibilities and supporting each person who engages with our services.”
Ms. Ryan joins the AAI from Northern Ireland, where she served as Commissioner for Survivors of Institutional Childhood Abuse. Prior to this appointment, she was Chief Executive of one of the largest domestic abuse support service organisations in the Republic of Ireland. She has also held roles in public health advocacy, working to reduce alcohol-related harm and has been a strong advocate for children’s rights.
She began her career as a journalist in Dublin and Belfast before moving into strategic communications. She holds an MBA, an MA in Journalism, a Postgraduate Certificate in Trauma Studies, as well as a Diploma in Coaching and Leadership.
