Nano Nagle Place appoints new CEO

John Smith has been appointed as the new CEO of South Presentation Centre which operates as Nano Nagle Place. This appointment comes after the departure of former CEO, Shane Clarke.

A Cork native with over 25 years’ experience in the private and not for profit sectors, Smith spent his early career working with EMC DELL in Ovens, Co. Cork.

After completing an MA in Development Education and Community Development, he joined the Development Education Team in Irish international aid agency, Trócaire. During his time there, Smith led teams responsible for delivery of the Development Education Programme, Advocacy Campaigns, Church Community Engagement, Digital and Traditional Communications and Policy and Advocacy and Volunteer Programmes.

For the past 5 years, he has worked as part of Trócaire’s Executive Leadership Team, responsible for the delivery of their Strategic Framework.

On the announcement of his appointment, Smith said “Nano Nagle Place is an oasis in the heart of Cork City. Visitors to the complex can enjoy a warm welcome to a museum, heritage rooms, beautiful gardens, the Good Day Deli Cafe, both a design and gift shop, and a Cork focussed book shop. Furthermore, the centre delivers thriving programmes through education, spiritual engagement, and community inclusion. I am looking forward to working with the talented and passionate Nano Nagle Place team, Board, and stakeholders as we look ahead to the future with ambition and optimism”.

The Chair of South Presentation Centre’s Board, Pat Ledwidge, says “I’m delighted that John has commenced duty as CEO. As Nano Nagle Place enters its next phase of development, the Board looks forward to working closely with John and his team. Post Covid, Nano Nagle Place now operates in a changed environment. The challenge is to continue to operate sustainably whilst continuing the legacy of Nano Nagle in the areas of education, community development, social justice, and spirituality.”