A Farewell Reflection: Áine Myler

As I prepare to step down as CEO, after four and a half unforgettable years, I find myself reflecting with enormous gratitude on what has been one of the greatest privileges of my career.

Joining the charity sector was a significant change from my previous business life. I wasn't entirely sure what to expect, but I quickly discovered something very special: a community of people driven not by profit or prestige, but by purpose. That sense of purpose is infectious, and it has stayed with me every single day.

During my time here, I have been proud to champion the contribution of professional charities to Ireland's economy and society. Our members employ more than 40,000 people, deliver life-changing services across Ireland and internationally, and support people and communities when they need it most. Yet so much of that work happens quietly, often without the recognition it deserves.

In recent years, the challenges have only grown. Political uncertainty, a changing geopolitical landscape, increasing demand for services and shrinking resources have tested organisations in ways few could have imagined. At the same time, expectations around governance and regulation continue to grow. We all know that strong governance requires investment, yet too often organisations are expected to achieve ever higher standards without the funding needed to build the capacity behind them. That is something we must continue to advocate for.

What I will miss most is the people I’ve had the pleasure to work with.

To our members, thank you. Thank you for your generosity in sharing ideas, your willingness to support one another, your honesty, your ambition and your commitment to making this sector stronger together. I have loved seeing friendships formed, knowledge exchanged and collaborations emerge through our networks. Our community is one of our greatest strengths, and together we have continued to raise the profile of a sector that deserves to be recognised for the expertise, professionalism and impact it brings every day.

To our corporate partners and our many collaborators across the sector, thank you for your trust, expertise and willingness to work together. Progress is always built on partnership, and so much of what we have achieved has only been possible because of the strong relationships we have developed together. I also want to express my appreciation to the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht for its continued core funding and steadfast support in delivering our purpose.

To my wonderful team, there simply aren't enough words. It has been an absolute joy to work alongside such talented, dedicated people. You consistently deliver above and beyond, always with professionalism and a real determination to get things done. You have made me look far better than I deserved, and I will always be grateful.

My heartfelt thanks also go to our Board for its wise stewardship and steadfast support, and to our committee members whose expertise, generosity and commitment have shaped so much of what we have achieved together.

I couldn't be happier to see Scott Kelley take on the role of CEO. He knows this organisation, understands our members and cares deeply about the future of the sector. I wish him every success as he leads the next chapter.

As I say goodbye, my hope is that we never stop believing in the value of what we do. My hope is that we continue to grow in confidence as a sector - recognising our own value and ensuring others do too. Professional charities are every bit as innovative, accountable and impactful as organisations across the business, corporate and public sectors, and our contribution deserves to be recognised accordingly.

Thank you for welcoming me into this remarkable sector. It has challenged me, inspired me and changed me. The future of our sector will always be shaped by people who care enough to lead, to collaborate and to keep believing that together we can make a difference.

Thank you for letting me be one of those people. I'll always be cheering you on.