Communications Specialist with 25 years in broadcast media, experienced in managing high-profile events and diplomatic communications. Proven expertise in organizational management, international protocol, and strategic planning. Skilled in crisis management and team leadership, fostering positive relationships with global counterparts while ensuring adherence to protocol guidelines.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Protocol Officer & Communications Specialist
Department of the Taoiseach, Government Buildings
Dublin, Ireland
2021 - Current
Facilitated official visits by ensuring adherence to government building and Taoiseach’s office protocols.
Executed protocol events including receptions, state dinners, official visits, and conferences to ensure successful outcomes.
Coordinated communication with departments, embassies, and external stakeholders to manage ceremonial arrangements effectively.
Established and maintained effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders to facilitate diplomatic communication.
Kept confidential records and communication standards within Taoiseach’s Department.
Monitored media coverage of international affairs topics to assess public opinion and sentiment towards foreign governments or organizations.
Organized press events with visiting representatives from foreign governments or organizations.
Prepared briefings on current issues related to foreign policy developments or international agreements.
Identified creative PR opportunities and campaigns to enhance client visibility and awareness. Designed, produced, packaged, and delivered broadcast documentaries and features for governments, organizations, PR companies, and broadcasting stations, showcasing their initiatives. Co-ordinates media support. Completed 'The Y Factor' for NWCI. Funded by GENIO to develop 'WRAP Radio' for NEWSTALK National Broadcast. Social Justice & Mental Health Campaigns have awarded VE Productions 2014 Ambassador for 'See Change' and 'Fellow' of The School of Social Entrepreneurs.
EXAMPLES OF PRODUCTIONS;
BECAUSE IT'S TIME, MENTAL HEALTH REFORM, IRELAND
In association with MHR, See Change & Amnesty International. Funded by the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. Broadcast at 'First Forthnight 2013'. Broadcast on National Radio; 'DriveTime', RTE Radio One & LunchTime', Newstalk, BAI Local Commercial & Community Radio Stations. Embedded Online in The Irish Examiner & Website of MHR & its' 32 member organisations. 'Because It's Time' crafted a multi-generational narrative reflecting diverse voices on mental health in Ireland, highlighting personal stories and advocacy. It's about the first persons, the policy makers and advocate shakers, who tell why this conversation matters to us all. 'Because It's Time' is an 11 track audio CD with an additional 3 tracks representing the National Audio Ad Campaign; 'Minding It, Living It, Bridging It'.
AWARD WINNING RADIO PRODUCER
NEWSTALK 106 – 108FM
01.2002 - 01.2005
Produced Breakfast, Mid-Morning, Lunch, and Weekend Current Affairs programming, enhancing audience engagement. Creator & Series Producer of weekly Current Affairs programme, 'The Wide Angle'. Trained new researcher recruits at Newstalk, improving team capabilities. – Interviewed and trained new Researcher recruits for Newstalk. Secured Outside Broadcast opportunities for Newstalk, expanding programming reach. Secured BAI & DFA broadcast funding for Newstalk.
Produced live talk shows for Newstalk 106-108FM studio broadcasts
Coordinated guest bookings and interview schedules for daily programmes
Edited audio clips for news, features, and promotional content
NEWS PRESENTER
DUBLIN'S COUNTRY MIX 106.8FM
01.2001 - 01.2002
Led Weekend News Department, researching, scripting, and presenting hourly news bulletins to ensure timely and accurate information delivery.
Delivered live news bulletins on-air at Dublin's Country Mix 106.8FM, engaging listeners with timely information.
Researched local stories, breaking updates, and community events for broadcasts
Wrote clear scripts for station news and on-air announcements
TELEVISION DOCUMENTARY FEATURE WITH ADRIAN LYNCH
RTÉ TELEVISION
Dublin 4
01.2001
Developed narrative elements and coordinated production activities for the 'SARI's Story' project at RTÉ Television.
Contributed innovative ideas and solutions to enhance team performance and outcomes.
Worked successfully with a diverse group of coworkers to accomplish goals and address issues related to our products and services.
Promoted high customer satisfaction by resolving problems with knowledgeable and friendly service.
MEDIA TRAINER WITH JOHN CADEN, EX-PRODUCER GAY BYRNE SHOW
CADEN COMMUNICATIONS
Co. Dublin
01.2000 - 01.2002
Trained spokespersons in effective sound-byte delivery for radio and television. Instructed politicians and NGOs on concise message delivery to media within thirty seconds.
Delivered onboarding training for communication services staff and new hires.
Developed training materials for client communication procedures and call handling.
Led classroom sessions on systems, policies, and workplace expectations.
DUBLIN MILLENNIUM PROJECT MANAGER
01.2000
SARI – Sports Against Racism, Ireland.
Coordinated Multi-Cultural Mardi Gras in Dublin's Smithfield in the Millennium year.
Media spokesperson in promoting furthering cultural connections.
Promoted 'National Lunch Day' on National radio and television with Gerry Ryan.
PRESS & INFORMATION OFFICER
OPERA THEATRE COMPANY, IRELAND (OTC)
01.1999 - 2000
Promoted OTC products through local radio and television tours in Ireland, increasing brand visibility and consumer engagement.
Managed audience enquiries across theatre email, phone, and front-of-house channels.
Provided programme, performance, and booking information to patrons and visitors.
Updated event details on company website and public communications.
VOICE-OVER ARTIST AND PR SCRIPT WRITER
INTERNATIONAL TECHNOLOGY EXCHANGE (ITE)
01.1996 - 01.1998
Collaborated with Director of Art and Graphic Designers to create cohesive branded image for international clients.
Created visual artwork for International Technology Exchange promotional campaigns and events.
Developed concept sketches for client presentations and digital media materials.
Produced illustrations matching brand guidelines and project themes.
BROADCAST ASSISTANT
VOICE OF AMERICA, (VOA) DUBLIN -- WASHINGTON
01.1997
Prepared news and educational programming for 'The Garth Brooks Tour of Ireland,' reaching an estimated global audience of over 100 million.
Supported Voice of America Dublin-Washington broadcast production and daily newsroom operations.
Prepared scripts, rundowns, and program notes for live and recorded segments.
Coordinated audio files, source materials, and broadcast documentation for editors.
PRESENTER
EAST COAST RADIO FM
01.1995 - 01.1998
Presented live radio segments for East Coast Radio FM audiences.
Hosted nightly radio show, 'East Coast After Dark', engaging listeners with curated content and fostering community interaction.
Introduced music, news, and sponsor messages on air.
Read scripts and station updates with clear vocal delivery.
Education
Diploma - DIT / DIGITAL SKILLS ACADEMY, DIGITAL HUB
WEBELEVATE
DUBLIN 8
01-2013
Master of Arts - First Class Honours in Broadcast Media Production
IADT
Dublin
01-2011
Diploma - Programme Planning and Production
SKILLNETS
01-2010
DIPLOMA - JOURNALISM & MEDIA STUDIES' (HONS)
GRIFFITH COLLEGE
01-1993
EXECUTIVE NETWORKING AND SUPPORT PILOT PROGRAMME -
FÃS IN ASSOCIATION WITH OPTIMUM LIMITED
BBC MEDIA TRAINING COURSE - Research Film & TV
BRITISH BROADCASTING CORPORATION
Skills
25 years Broadcast Experience
Current affairs networking
Research and production skills
Client-focused interpersonal skills
Deadline-driven project management
Organized project coordination
Professional product delivery
Administrative and social media proficiency
Strategic storytelling
ACHIEVEMENTS
WOMEN FOR ELECTION, 2012 – 2017, Received certificate from the INSPIRE PROGRAMME
CREATIVE D, 2010 – 2017, Member of 100 smart industries that integrate creativity and innovation to ensure that individually and collectively, the creative industries become a significant force in our new economy.
ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT RADIO PRODUCERS, IRELAND (AIRPI), 2005 – 2017, FOUNDING MEMBER / SECRETARY, AIRPI is a national association set up by independent radio producers to promote the development of professional independent production in radio in Ireland. AIRPI is supported and funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland.
AWARDS, 2004, Best Radio Documentary – ESB Media Awards
2002, Best Current Affairs Radio Programme – PPI Radio Awards
2002, Best Multi-Cultural Broadcast – MAMA Media Awards
RADIO VOIX SANS FRONTIERS, 2000, Represented Ireland at Youth Forum, Budapest, Hungary
SELECTED TO PARTAKE IN BCI FUNDED PROJECT WOMEN ON AIR, 1999