Please see our CANDIDATE BRIEFING DOCUMENT FOR THE POSITION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER for all details about this role.

 

THE ORGANISATION

Founded in 1994, ARC Cancer Support Centres (ARC) is an independent Irish charity that provides complementary, holistic and psychological support to people living with cancer and to their loved ones. Its aim is to enhance coping skills and quality of life during and after cancer treatment. ARC offers free psychological, emotional, educational and practical supports, including counselling, survivorship programmes, complementary therapies and drop‑in services. The Charity operates three “home‑from‑home” centres close to the Mater, St James’s and St Vincent’s Hospitals in Dublin. The Board of ARC now wishes to appoint a dynamic and visionary Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) to lead the organisation into its next stage of growth and cultural evolution, responding to the increasing and changing needs of people affected by cancer.

THE ROLE

Reporting to the Chairperson and Board of Directors, the CEO will play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of the organisation. As CEO, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of ARC’s operations, including strategic leadership, financial management, stakeholder engagement, and staff development. You will work closely with the Board to ensure strong governance, legal and regulatory compliance, including oversight of the Section 39 agreement and HSE requirements. As the public face of ARC, you will champion a client‑led culture, embedding the lived experience of people with cancer and their families into service planning and delivery. As a vocal advocate you will represent the organisation to the HSE, government, corporate partners, funders, media and the wider community.

THE PERSON

The successful candidate will be an inspirational and visionary leader with a genuine commitment to ARC’s mission and values. You possess significant senior management experience, ideally within a charitable or mission-driven context, and have a proven track record of delivering organisational growth and impact. Your strategic expertise is matched by strong commercial acumen and a proven track record in financial management and income generation. An understanding of health sector operations, HSE commissioning (inc. Section 39/NCCP), and legislation such as the Charities Governance Code and HIQA standards is a distinct advantage. Your communication/advocacy skills will be critical in engaging a wide range of stakeholders to represent the needs of people affected by cancer. If you are motivated by the opportunity to lead an organisation that supports people through one of the most challenging times in their lives, we invite you to apply for this unique leadership role. 

To Apply:

Application Closing Date: Friday 27th March 2026.

To pursue your interest please email a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae and supporting letter to: Seán McDonagh, Partner Lansdowne Executive Search Limited, Email: sean.mcdonagh@lansdownesearch.ie Or for a confidential discussion please call Seán on +353 87 796 1062.