We are proud to continue our blog series introducing the dedicated members of Anam Cara’s Board. Today, we meet Pat Cullen, whose steady leadership, financial guidance and commitment to giving back have helped support Anam Cara’s growth and impact over the years.
We hope you enjoy learning more about Pat and the important role he has played.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
My name is Pat Cullen. Before my retirement, I spent my full time working career as a partner with Deloitte, where I served in a range of leadership positions including CEO. I live in Glencullen, just a stone’s throw from Johnnie Fox’s. Since retiring from Deloitte, I’ve taken the opportunity to get involved as non-executive Director with a number of companies including FBD Hotels, who recently took ownership of the Grand Hotel in Malahide, an exciting redevelopment project I’ve been closely involved with and Park Development group, one of Ireland’s leading development companies and a strong supporter of Anam Cara.
I’ve always believed in giving back, and as I entered retirement, I found myself with the time and interest to support organisations doing meaningful work.
How did you get involved with Anam Cara?
My route to Anam Cara is a little different to many board members, as I haven’t personally experienced the loss of a child. Instead, my involvement came through people I knew and respected.
The former Chairperson, the late John Mullins, first approached me. John and I had known each other through a business relationship and following his decision to step back from the Chair role, he asked if I would consider joining the board. I also knew Sharon Vard, Anam Cara’s co‑founder and former CEO. Between John and Sharon, I didn’t need much arm‑twisting, they both spoke so passionately about the charity’s work.
With the time and headspace after retiring from Deloitte, I was very happy to get involved and contribute whatever skills I could.
What is your role with Anam Cara?
I joined as a Director, just like any other board member, but with one key difference: I was the only accountant on the board at the time. Anam Cara is a small organisation achieving an extraordinary amount with limited resources, and having someone with a financial background on the board was something they felt would be helpful.
So while my formal role is as a Director, my day‑to‑day contribution has largely been offering financial guidance, supporting governance, and helping ensure the organisation is stable and sustainable as it grows.
In your view, what makes Anam Cara’s support for bereaved parents unique or especially impactful?
Anam Cara has grown significantly since I first came on board. The number of meeting locations has increased, the supports have expanded, and the overall professionalism of the organisation has deepened.
The biggest transformation, however, came during COVID‑19. Everything Anam Cara did was built around in‑person connection, so overnight, all supports were halted. With a very small team, and many not naturally “tech‑minded”, they developed a full online service in an incredibly short space of time. It was a huge undertaking.
Interestingly, even after COVID, online support has remained an essential part of the service. Some parents prefer meeting in person, while others find online sessions more accessible. Today, Anam Cara offers a combination of both, alongside a growing library of videos, information, and resources that simply didn’t exist when I first got involved.
All of this progress has been possible because of the generosity of volunteers and professionals who give their time and expertise so willingly. Their support has enabled Anam Cara to become what it is today.
Can you share a moment that stands out during your time on the board?
For me, the question I always ask myself is simple: “When I leave, will the organisation be in a better place than when I joined?” That’s the measure of whether I’ve contributed something meaningful.
With some boards, particularly in the public sector, you can sometimes wonder if you’re making an impact. But with charities like Anam Cara, the difference is tangible. You hear directly from people whose lives have been changed by the support they’ve received. Even if my role is behind the scenes, knowing I’ve played a small part in helping the organisation deliver its mission is extremely fulfilling.
How do you see Anam Cara evolving in the coming years?
There has been significant positive change in recent times. Michelle’s arrival as CEO has brought new energy, new ideas, and new expertise to the organisation. She has also brought in strong people around her, which has helped re‑energise the wider team and strengthen the foundation for future growth.
One of the biggest challenges remains, and that is awareness. Tragically, many parents only learn about Anam Cara when they need the service themselves. There is an important job ahead in making the organisation better known, so families can access support earlier and more easily. With the renewed energy and focus that Michelle has brought, I believe Anam Cara is well positioned to grow awareness and expand its reach.
What would you say to someone considering supporting Anam Cara?
Although I haven’t personally availed of Anam Cara’s services, I’ve been deeply moved hearing the stories of parents who have. Many describe the support as life‑changing.
At our annual Christmas lunch, a bereaved parent typically shares their story. Every year, the room is in tears, sad tears, of course, but also deeply inspired by the strength and resilience these parents show. Those moments remind me why Anam Cara exists, and why it matters.
Even if I’m only contributing in a small way, I feel privileged to support an organisation making such a profound difference to families living through unimaginable loss.