Chief Executive Officer, Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA)

THE ORGANISATION

The Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA) represents 43 global pharmaceutical companies in Ireland, spanning prescription and self-care medicines. Its members develop prescription drugs, vaccines, and self-care products that prevent and treat diseases, improving both lifespan and quality of life. With numerous manufacturing sites nationwide, the industry supports thousands of quality jobs and significant investment, playing a vital role in Ireland’s economy. IPHA champions innovation and strives for timely patient access to new treatments and clinical trials. Its key priorities are: facilitating access to innovative medicines, upholding ethical and self-regulatory standards, advancing biopharmaceutical research, and promoting the sector’s economic impact and supportive policy environment. Owing to the imminent retirement of the current Chief Executive, the Board of IPHA is now seeking an accomplished individual to serve as its next Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead the Association into its next stage of growth and innovation.

THE ROLE

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the CEO will lead the strategy, operations and organisation of IPHA, embodying its culture and representing the industry’s collective voice. The role includes developing and implementing IPHA’s strategy and ensuring the Association meets members’ evolving needs, expands membership opportunities and maintains strong governance. The CEO will build and deepen relationships with Government, the Oireachtas, State agencies, patient organisations, international bodies, media and the public, taking personal responsibility for the highest‑level engagements.

A key responsibility is overseeing the development of robust, evidence‑based public policy proposals aligned with national and European priorities, supporting both patient benefit and sustainable industry growth. The role also requires strong  financial leadership to ensure short‑term efficiency and long‑term sustainability, as well as proactive participation in international organisations such as EFPIA, AESGP and IFPMA to secure strong representation of Ireland’s perspective and recognition among peer associations.

‍

THE PERSON

You will possess extensive senior-level experience collaborating with government on developing and implementing impactful policies in commercial and health sectors. You will have a strong track record of leadership across strategy, organisational culture, stakeholder engagement, policy development, regulatory compliance and operations – ideally gained within Ireland’s life sciences sector or a comparable organisation representing industry interests to government entities. Comprehensive expertise in Irish healthcare policy and foreign direct investment is preferred, while familiarity with the pharmaceutical sector and European health and pharmaceutical policy would be advantageous. You will exhibit strong financial management skills, knowledge of legal and regulatory issues, and advanced governance abilities. Exceptional communication across media platforms, public, and professional forums, along with the capability to represent IPHA internationally, are crucial. On a personal level, you will be an ethical, collaborative team member who aligns well with IPHA’s mission and values.

‍

Download Candidate Booklet

‍

To Apply:

Lansdowne Executive Search has been retained by IPHA to manage this recruitment process.

Further information, including details on how to apply are available on www.ipha.ie

If you feel you would benefit from a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Seán McDonagh, Partner, Lansdowne Executive Search on: Email: sean.mcdonagh@lansdownesearch.ie or Mobile: +353 (0)87 796 1062

Closing date for receipt of applications is Friday 29th May 2026.

Candidates for this role will be sourced through both advertising and executive search processes.

The Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA) is an equal opportunities employer.

‍