Joanne Kedward
Dublin,Ireland
Summary
Results-oriented strategic thinker with a focus on measurable outcomes, known for discretion, integrity, and sound judgment. A resilient and composed leader in complex environments, adept at leveraging technology to streamline solutions. Committed to creating safe, engaging workplaces through innovative problem-solving and human capital development. Expertise in workplace strategy, global travel management, crisis management, and governance. Dedicated to stakeholder engagement and change leadership with a strong cross-cultural awareness.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work history
Head of Workspaces, Travel & Director Administration
Primark – IHO
Dublin
06.2018 - 09.2025
- Lead global Workspaces, Travel, and Director Administration across 17 regions.
- Designed and implemented hybrid workspace strategy supporting international expansion (Europe, U.S., CEE, GCC).
- Introduced global travel platforms and policies, driving compliance, wellbeing, and cost efficiency.
- Negotiated vendor contracts, delivering multimillion-euro savings and service enhancements.
- Directed crisis management and business continuity plans, ensuring operational resilience.
- Embedded comprehensive duty of care framework with real-time traveller tracking and safety protocols.
- Created Director Support function, standardising executive support across regions.
Head of CEO Office, Corporate Travel & Workspaces
Primark – IHO
Dublin
10.2009 - 06.2018
- Supported CEO while overseeing corporate travel and workspace strategy.
- Led strategic initiatives to enhance corporate travel policies and optimise workspace utilisation.
- Oversaw major HQ expansion (30k → 150k sqft) and redevelopment of Primark House (125k sqft).
Investor Liaison
IIU (International Investment & Underwriting)
Dublin
01.2001 - 01.2007
EA to HR Director
Xerox (Europe) Ltd.
Dublin
01.1999 - 01.2001
Clerical Officer, Protocol Division
Department of Foreign Affairs
Dublin
01.1995 - 01.1999
Skills
- Results-oriented strategic thinker with a focus on measurable outcomes
- Resilient and composed in complex and crisis environments
- People-centric, collaborative leader with strong cross-cultural awareness
- Trusted advisor, known for discretion, integrity, and sound judgment
- Innovative problem-solver, leveraging technology to streamline solutions
- Committed to creating safe, engaging, and high-performing workplaces
Core Competencies
- Workplace strategy & colleague experience
- Global travel management & policy design
- Duty of care & traveler wellbeing
- Crisis management & business continuity
- Technology-enabled transformation
- Human capital development & workforce design
- Governance, compliance & risk management
- Executive administration & board support
- Real estate & facilities optimisation
- Stakeholder engagement & change leadership
Certification
- Diploma in Human Resource Practice (In progress)
- Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) Certification
- Leadership Programme accreditations
- Mental Health First Aider
Timeline
Head of Workspaces, Travel & Director Administration
Primark – IHO
06.2018 - 09.2025
Head of CEO Office, Corporate Travel & Workspaces
Primark – IHO
10.2009 - 06.2018
Investor Liaison
IIU (International Investment & Underwriting)
01.2001 - 01.2007
EA to HR Director
Xerox (Europe) Ltd.
01.1999 - 01.2001
Clerical Officer, Protocol Division
Department of Foreign Affairs
01.1995 - 01.1999