Health, education and social care charity St John of God Hospitaller Services Group has appointed Jerry Dempsey as its new group chief executive as it continues with governance reforms.
Dempsey has over 25 years of executive management experience at board and C-suite level across healthcare, pharma and environmental services in Ireland, the UK and the US.
St John of God said Dempsey had led mission-driven organisations in regulated multi-stakeholder environments where trust, compliance and service quality are paramount.
Dempsey has previously served as managing director of Greenstar, chief executive of Ashfield Healthcare USA and chief commercial officer of healthcare and life sciences company Complete Laboratory Solutions.
He has led organisations through periods of significant growth and transformation while balancing commercial acumen and financial sustainability.
Dempsey has also contributed his expertise as a consultant across a number of sectors, supporting both commercial ventures and not-for-profit organisations.
He also brings a commitment to community engagement, evidenced by voluntary governance roles in the education sector.
St John of God said Dempsey's experience positioned him to progress the transformation of the group and its affiliates while championing its values of compassion, hospitality and respect.
The next phase of the transition process will see the remaining brothers in Ireland and the UK step down from the group's boards by the end of the year.
St John of God has also appointed William J Carlos to its board following a distinguished career in the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Dr Lillian Chirwa, director of health and social services for Mzuzu City Council, was recently appointed chair.
"I am honoured to take up the role of Group CEO at this transformative time for the St John of God Group," said Dempsey of his appointment.
"The Order has laid a remarkable foundation for the task ahead with over a century and half of dedicated service and leadership.
"I am confident we can continue to fulfil the mission of Saint John of God by building a cohesive, resilient and sustainable future, adapting to emerging requirements and meeting unmet need while delivering impactful, compassionate care to those in need.
"Ensuring the dignity and well-being of the people we are entrusted to support and helping them to reach their full potential, remains our central focus."
Dr Tony Hanna, chair of SJOG HSG Board, noted: “We are delighted to confirm Jerry Dempsey’s appointment as Group CEO. He brings a wealth of professional experience and corporate expertise to this role as we enter a new era in the Group’s development.
"We acknowledge the invaluable contribution the Order has made over the past 150 years in helping the most vulnerable in our society. We will continue to lead the services with the utmost respect and commitment to that legacy.”
St John of God supports over 12,000 children, adolescents and adults in Ireland with 3,500 staff and 420 volunteers and has been providing such services for over 140 years.
Photo: Jerry Dempsey. (Pic: Julien Behal)
