Chief Executive Officer, Western Care Association

THE ORGANISATION

Western Care Association is a leading, values-driven Section 39 organisation providing a comprehensive range of disability services across 134 locations in County Mayo. With a dedicated workforce of 1,100 staff and an annual operating budget in excess of €60 million, the Association delivers residential, respite, day and community-based supports. The Association is committed to empowering people with a wide range of learning and associated disabilities to live full and satisfied lives as equal citizens. Operating in a complex and highly regulated environment, Western Care Association works in close partnership with the HSE, HIQA, Government Departments, other statutory bodies, families, employees and local communities. The Association is proud of its strong reputation, deep roots in Mayo and unwavering focus on rights, inclusion and person-centred support.

THE ROLE

The Board of Western Care Association now wishes to appoint a dynamic, values-led and visionary Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation into its next stage of development, building on its strong foundations while navigating a changing policy, funding and regulatory landscape. Reporting to the Board of Directors through the Chairperson, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is the Association’s most senior executive and principal public representative, responsible for fostering confidence, respect and trust in the organisation among staff, stakeholders and the wider community. Based in Castlebar, Co. Mayo, the CEO will lead the next phase of the organisation’s development, ensuring it delivers on its mission, vision and values. The CEO will provide clear strategic direction, strong executive leadership and effective stewardship across all aspects of the Association’s work, including service quality, organisational performance, financial sustainability, workforce leadership, governance, regulatory compliance and strategic relationships. The role involves working closely with the Board, Senior Management Team and operational leaders to deliver the strategic plan, drive continuous improvement and manage risk, while engaging constructively with the HSE and other key funders and regulators. The CEO will also act as an influential ambassador and advocate for Western Care Association and for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities locally, regionally, nationally and internationally.

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THE PERSON

The CEO will be skilled at working with and reporting to a board. They will demonstrate integrity, sound judgement, resilience and the ability to operate effectively in a demanding, evolving environment. They will be an outstanding communicator and relationship builder, capable of influencing at the highest levels and engaging confidently with funders, regulators, employees, families and people supported. They will have a relevant NFQ Level 8 qualification (or equivalent) and a minimum of eight years senior leadership experience with a strong personal commitment to the rights, dignity and full inclusion of people with disabilities at the heart of their leadership.

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Download Candidate Booklet

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To Apply:

Lansdowne Executive Search has been retained by Western Care Association to manage this recruitment process.

Further information, including details on how to apply are available on www.westerncare.com

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

Closing date for receipt of applications is Friday 6th November 2026.

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

Western Care Association is an equal opportunities employer.

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