01-07-2025
Orla O'Connor to step down from her role as director of National Women's Council
She will leave the organisation in the coming months to start a new role as executive director of St Stephen's Green Trust, an independent social justice grant-maker.
Ms O'Connor held different positions during her 23 years of working in the NWC, including 13 years as a director.
Describing her time in the council as the 'greatest honour of her career', she said she is 'excited for her new journey ahead'.
'It has been the greatest honour of my career to lead this extraordinary organisation of almost 200 member groups from across the island and work alongside such strong and passionate feminists,' she said.
"Together, we have built a powerful organisation – a place that drives real change, holds true to feminist values and makes a lasting difference to women's lives and Irish society.
"I am excited for my new journey ahead as I step into my new role as executive director of St Stephen's Green Trust, and I will bring with me everything the NWC has taught me about courage, solidarity and the power of collective action,' she added.
Paying a tribute to the outgoing director, the chairperson of NWC, Jennifer Okeke, described Ms O'Connor as a 'true feminist leader'.
"Orla is a true feminist leader who has dedicated her life to the achievement of equality and social justice," Ms Okeke said.
"During her time in the NWC, she has made an incredible contribution to the organisation and to the advancement of women's rights and equality in Ireland.
"Ireland is a better place for women and girls thanks to the work of NWC under her leadership,' she added.
The organisation, established in 1973 and working for women's rights and equality in Ireland, will begin the search for a new director in the coming weeks, with recruitment led by NWC's board.
