Meet our Ireland CEO, Ciara Smullen

Ciara joined Sightsavers Ireland in 2016 as the head of strategic partnerships, and became chief executive in April 2023.

She has a vast range of experience developed over the past 20 years within the corporate and non-profit sectors.

Ciara has been working in the non-profit sector for more than 14 years, and specifically the NGO sector for nine years, with international organisations focusing on health, education and social inclusion. During her career, she has developed a strong passion for inclusive development.

“While it might sound like a tired old cliché, I joined the non-profit sector in 2009 to make my contribution to making the world a better place. That initial first step has brought me on a journey where I now have the privilege of leading a dedicated and committed team that do that every day here at Sightsavers Ireland, with the support of the Irish public and key partners like Irish Aid.

“The impact that Sightsavers’ work has on hundreds of thousands of people every year in the countries where we operate is staggering, and I’m very proud to be a part of that story.”