Executive Director

Philip has 45 years experience in Sales & Marketing in Retail, Office Systems and Enterprise IT Solutions. His vision for Release and Society as a whole is driven by his heart and love for others. He is highly valued by everyone he works with and his vast professional and life experience has undoubtedly added to the success of Release.

Chief Executive Officer

Jay has been working in the social care industry for 10 years, first as a volunteer, then supervisor, manager, and now as CEO.

Having experienced homelessness himself due to poverty, when he first arrived in Ireland from his native Croatia, he worked with Tiglin across numerous roles before joining Ireland’s Release.

Jay holds an Honours Bachelor’s degree and two Master’s degrees in Peacekeeping and International Development, and Social Care, alongside professional qualifications in social care and business.

He is a recipient of the Lord Mayor’s Award and the Irish Red Cross Young Humanitarian Award for his work with Tiglin, and has also been recognised for academic excellence by the Minister for Education.

Chair Person

Patrick is a retired Civil Servant, who worked with the Department of Foreign Affairs holding diplomatic positions as Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Ireland in South Africa and Consular Attaché in London. Along with his significant professional experience, Pat is kind and articulate. He gently encourages everyone he meets and is a key player in the successful running of Release.

Volunteer Admin and Finance Manager

Pat is a retired civil servant who humbly manages the finances with precision and accuracy. His work ethics are admirably strong which highlights his integrity and the quality he brings to the team.

Program and Volunteer Coordinator

Michelle works closely with the prisons to ensure a smooth running of the Sycamore Tree Project. She manages the intake and upkeep of valued volunteers with care and integrity. Her bold faith allows her to dream big for the growth of Release and she passionately encourages those around her to make a difference for the better.

Michelle is driven by the vision that tomorrow can be the start of something new and wonderful for everyone, without carrying the burden of yesterday.

Volunteer Addiction Recovery Services Manager and Community Prison Link.

Collette is a creative, loving and charismatic member of our team who provides entry assessments for incarcerated men and women who are in need of a placement with addiction rehabilitation centres. Collette works closely with families affected by addiction providing support and professional advice. Collette leads with her heart and nurtures strong working relationships with the prison service, drug councillors and is greatly valued at Release as well as the industry as a whole.

Volunteer Fundraising Program Manager

Barry is the CEO of Brand New Productions, a niche production agency working with many International, public and private organisations. His expertise and professional experience, together with the desire to make a positive difference has proven to be invaluable for Release.