County Kildare LEADER Partnership announces the appointment of new CEO
County Kildare LEADER Partnership CLG., Announces Appointment of New CEO
County Kildare LEADER Partnership CLG, the Local Development Company, is pleased to announce the appointment of Karl Duffy as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 1st September 2024.
Karl Duffy brings a wealth of experience to County Kildare Leader Partnership, with a Master’s Degree in Psychology and many years of work in personal development, change management, social inclusion and rural development. More specifically, with over 15 years of leadership in local development, including the SICAP and LEADER Programmes, he is well-equipped to lead CKLP into its next chapter of growth and innovation.
We are very pleased that Karl is taking over as CEO of the Company” said Colm Ó Gógáin, Chairperson of the Board of Management, CKLP, “He has a deep knowledge of our strategy and operations, having been involved in the LEADER Programme and Health and Wellbeing Initiatives for a number of years now, and thus he is in a strong position to build on the legacy left by former CEO Pat Leogue. We have a very strong and committed staff team in CKLP and are confident that Karl will build on their strengths but also inspire new ideas and approaches that will shape our future success.”
Karl is equally enthusiastic about leading CKLP:
“I am delighted to take on this role at such an important and challenging time for CKLP and for the county. The company has a strong legacy in Community Development and Social Inclusion, and in supporting Communities, Individuals, Businesses and Social Enterprises across Kildare. I look forward to working with the talented team here who are committed to making a real difference in people’s lives. Together, we will continue to work with our partners and funding agencies to support our clients, build vibrant communities, improve the quality of life for individuals, and create lasting, positive change.”
Karl also reflected on former CEO Pat Leogue and wanted to thank him for his leadership and dedication throughout his tenure.
“Pat’s vision and commitment have left a lasting impact, shaping our company into what it is today, and not least in the fabulous building we have renovated in Kildare Town, which continues the legacy of the Presentation Order in the town. As he embarks on this next chapter in his life, we wish him all the best in his retirement!”
In his new role, Karl will focus on implementing the Company’s Strategic Plan, launched in 2023, ensuring that CKLP contributes to ongoing local development in the county. He is dedicated to working towards a more just county for all its citizens, young and old, promoting a culture of diversity, sustainability, innovation, social inclusion, rural development, and wellness — values that are deeply aligned with the company’s core mission.
About County Kildare LEADER Partnership
County Kildare LEADER Partnership is one of over fifty local development companies in Ireland.
We are responsible for the delivery of a range of Rural, Enterprise, Social Inclusion and Community Development Initiatives in County Kildare.
County Kildare LEADER Partnership is a not for profit Local Development Company that has been operational since January 2009 and is the result of an amalgamation of a number of organisations and their activities including KELT, the Kildare Community Partnership (KCP) and the County Kildare based section of OAK Partnership.
County Kildare LEADER Partnership is now continuing this work through the Rural Development Programme (LEADER), the Social Inclusion Community Activation Programme (SICAP) and other supporting programmes in empowering local communities to improve their quality of life.
The company has a Board of Directors, sub committees, and staff that are focussed on supporting communities and individuals to improve their quality of life and play a full and active role in their local community. In setting about its work County Kildare LEADER Partnership strives to adopt a people centred approach, that is caring, inclusive and empowering and recognises that in order to be effective, any work that is undertaken with stakeholders in County Kildare is achieved through co-operation and collaboration.
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For media inquiries or further information, please contact Catherine Connolly
