Carmel Doyle Transitions from Jack & Jill Foundation to Lead Oesophageal Cancer Fund as New CEO

Carmel Doyle bids farewell to her role as CEO of The Jack & Jill Children's Foundation, embarking on a new journey as the Chief Executive Officer of the Oesophageal Cancer Fund Ireland, a charity that has supported her family throughout her husband’s cancer diagnosis and recovery.

With a legacy of six years at the helm of Jack & Jill, Carmel has played a pivotal role in steering the organisation through growth, challenges, and triumphs. Her association with Jack & Jill spans over a decade, where she initially served as the Communications Director before stepping into the CEO shoes. Carmel’s commitment and dedication to the cause became evident as she championed the unique model of home nursing care provided by Jack & Jill. Under her leadership, the foundation has thrived, supporting over 400 children across the nation through a network of 600 community nurses and caregivers, delivering invaluable services every day of the year without a waiting list.

Having joined Jack & Jill in 2008, Carmel was introduced to the organisation by the late Jonathan Irwin, the founder of the charity. Her journey with the foundation has been marked by numerous successes and challenges, showcasing her resilience and strategic acumen in managing a charity of national importance.

Carmel brings to her new role at the Oesophageal Cancer Fund Ireland an impressive background with 30 years of experience at senior management and board levels in communications and business. Her extensive professional history includes working with esteemed PR consultancies in Ireland and internationally, such as Text 100, Edelman, Keating & Associates, and Heneghan PR. In addition to her corporate PR expertise, Carmel has successfully managed campaigns for a diverse range of clients, including multinationals and non-profits, earning her several prestigious awards.

A marketing graduate and a fellow, lecturer, and former President of the Public Relations Institute of Ireland, Carmel's wealth of experience positions her as a valuable asset to the Oesophageal Cancer Fund Ireland. Founded in response to a personal battle fought by Lucilla Hyland, who succumbed to Oesophageal Cancer in 2001, the fund strives to ensure that everyone affected by this form of cancer receives timely and optimal support and treatment. Lucilla's vision for increased awareness of Oesophageal Cancer, its risks, and symptoms is a cause that resonates with Carmel's passion for making a positive impact on people's lives.

As Carmel takes the reins at Oesophageal Cancer Fund Ireland (a Triple Locked member of Cii), we extend our heartfelt wishes for her success in this new chapter of her remarkable career. Her expertise, compassion, and commitment are sure to contribute significantly to the fund's mission of early diagnosis and successful treatments for those affected by Oesophageal Cancer. The charitable sector anticipates great strides under Carmel's leadership as she continues her journey of making a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by Oesophageal Cancer. Her first big step is Lollipop Day, the charity’s flagship fundraiser, on Friday 23rd February 2024.