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| 7 Oct 2026 | |
| Written by Carol Jordan | |
| Charity Sector News |
CCI Executive Search is pleased to announce the appointment of Karen Charnley as Chief Executive Officer of Age Action, effective from 1 October 2026. The appointment follows a recruitment process led by CCI in partnership with Age Action’s Board.
Karen brings extensive leadership and management experience across the public, voluntary and community sectors. She joins Age Action from the All Ireland Institute of Hospice and Palliative Care (AIIHPC), where she served as Chief Executive Officer, leading a collaboration of 27 member organisations across the island of Ireland, including universities, hospices, health and social care organisations and charities.
During her time at AIIHPC, Karen led the development and delivery of the Institute’s strategic priorities across policy, research, education, practice, public awareness and engagement with people with lived experience. Previously, as Programme Manager, she led the development of the Palliative Hub, an online information and resource portal, and supported the Institute’s education programme.
Karen is passionate about tackling inequality, strengthening services and ensuring that people’s voices and experiences inform policy and practice. In her new role, she will work with Age Action’s Board, colleagues and stakeholders to improve the lives of older people and promote positive ageing across Ireland.
Speaking about her appointment, Karen said:
“I am delighted to join Age Action as Chief Executive at such an important time for the organisation and for older people across Ireland. I am very much looking forward to working with the Board, colleagues, key stakeholders and supporters to build on Age Action’s strong foundations and deliver its mission to improve the lives of older people and create a society where everyone can age with dignity, equality and respect.”
CCI Executive Search congratulates Karen on her appointment and wishes her and the Age Action team every success in this next chapter.
About CCI Executive Search
CCI Executive Search is a specialist recruitment consultancy working exclusively with Ireland’s non-profit sector since 2014. A strategic partner of Charities Institute Ireland, CCI supports organisations with senior leadership, fundraising, communications, operations and other specialist appointments.
To learn more or discuss an upcoming recruitment need, visit CCI Executive Search’s website or contact Laura or Alex on 01 524 2807 or at recruitment@cciexecutivesearch.ie.
