Ivan Cooper Appointed CEO of The Wheel
The Wheel, the Republic of Ireland’s national association of charities, community groups and social enterprises, has announced the appointment of Ivan Cooper as its new Chief Executive Officer. Ivan replaced Deirdre Garvey who stepped down as CEO in December 2022 after 20 years in the role.
Ivan joined The Wheel in 2005, and in his role as Director of Public Policy he has progressed key policy objectives for the community and voluntary sector in the areas of charity regulation, funding, quality standards and active citizenship.
Commenting on Ivan’s appointment, Vincent Keenan, Chairperson of The Wheel said, “The Board of The Wheel believes that Ivan’s leadership and vision will be instrumental in driving our mission forward to will help us achieve our vision of a thriving charity and community sector at the heart of a fair, just and inclusive Ireland.”
Ivan Cooper said, “I am very much looking forward to working with The Wheel’s board and staff to support our members, raise public awareness of the work of charities, and ensure a thriving future for the community and voluntary sector.”
Ivan added that Ireland’s charities and community groups face a complex set of challenges, exacerbated by the cost-of-living and housing crises. “Charities and community groups are an important part of the fabric of Irish society. They provide crucial services and support in communities – and face similar challenges. All need to raise funds to survive, all need occasional support and advice, and all need to attract committed volunteers to survive. Additionally, the state depends on many charities as part of its strategy for delivering essential services and developing communities — and funding arrangements often do not reflect this reality, which creates challenges for both service delivery and staff retention. I look forward to working with our 2,300 member organisations, the Government and other key stakeholders to achieve a fair, just and inclusive outcome for all,” said Ivan Cooper.
