Family Carers Ireland Announces Sharon Foley as Incoming CEO

Sharon Foley

Tuesday, 8^th July 2025: Family Carers Ireland is delighted to announce the appointment of Sharon Foley as its new Chief Executive Officer. Sharon will be joining the organisation in August and will take over as CEO from September 2025. She brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in leadership within the nonprofit sector, having previously served as CEO of the Irish Hospice Foundation and the Crisis Pregnancy Agency.

Robert Anderson, the Chairperson of Family Carers Ireland, noted: "We are excited to welcome Sharon Foley as our new CEO. Sharon’s extensive background in non-profit management, governance, and advocacy will be instrumental in driving forward Family Carers Ireland's mission. Her leadership will undoubtedly strengthen our efforts to ensure that family carers receive the recognition and support they deserve. Her commitment throughout her career to enhancing the quality of health and social care in Ireland aligns perfectly with the organisation's vision for an Ireland where family carers are properly recognised and supported.

"Family Carers Ireland looks forward to Sharon's leadership in advancing its strategic initiatives and strengthening its impact on the lives of family carers throughout Ireland. We would like to acknowledge the immense contribution of John Dunne who led the organisation so well for so many years and we wish him the very best in his retirement."

Commenting on her appointment, Sharon Foley said: "I am honoured to join Family Carers Ireland and look forward to working with the dedicated team to further our goals of providing essential services and advocating for the rights of family carers. The organisation has a very positive reputation for strong governance, a skilled and committed team, and a highly compelling mission to support and empower family carers across the country. We know there are approximately 500,000 family carers in Ireland. Many are struggling financially, emotionally, and feel unsupported in their role. We also know that the provision of care in the home is the cornerstone of effective care in our communities. Without family carers, we simply cannot achieve the goals of Sláintecare. Together with our carers, our supporters, the HSE and government, we will continue to build a strong national carer movement and ensure that carers receive the recognition and support they deserve."

Sharon Foley Bio

Sharon is a highly experienced and respected leader in Ireland’s health and social care sector, with a career spanning over three decades. She served as CEO of the Irish Hospice Foundation for 11 years, where she led a team of 50 staff and initiated several national programmes.  Under her leadership, the organisation became a central force in shaping national policy and practice around end-of-life and bereavement care. Her work was instrumental in launching key initiatives, including Ireland’s first national children’s palliative care service and a pioneering programme for nursing homes. Prior to this, Sharon was the founding CEO of the Crisis Pregnancy Agency and held senior roles in health promotion and nutrition within the Department of Health and regional Health Boards. Her career has consistently focused on improving care systems and advocating for those most in need, including those navigating serious illness or healthcare challenges, end of life, and bereavement.

Sharon is known for her ability to lead complex projects, drive innovation, and deliver meaningful outcomes. Her consultancy work, which she has run since 2005, supports organisations in strategic development, public affairs, and stakeholder engagement. She brings deep insight into working with government, executive teams, and community groups to create lasting change.

Academically, Sharon holds two master’s degrees and several postgraduate qualifications in healthcare innovation, leadership, and governance. She is a skilled communicator with a strong commitment to compassionate care and practical solutions that make a real difference to families and communities.

About Family Carers Ireland

Family Carers Ireland is the national charity supporting the 500,000+ family carers across the country who care for loved ones such as children or adults with additional needs, physical or intellectual disabilities, frail older people, those with palliative care needs or those living with chronic illnesses, mental health challenges, or addiction. It provides a range of services and supports for family carers through its Carer Support Centres nationwide and through its National Freephone Careline 1800 24 07 24. See www.familycarers.ie for more information.