Michelle joined Anam Cara Parental & Sibling Bereavement Support as CEO in December 2024, bringing extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, fundraising strategy, and organisational development. Passionate about social impact, Michelle has dedicated her career to building inclusive, people-centred environments that foster meaningful change.
With a strong background in nonprofit strategy, governance, fundraising, and communications,
Michelle has held senior leadership roles at organisations such as ARC Cancer Support Centres, Debra Ireland, and LauraLynn Children’s Hospice, as well as board roles. She is currently a board member with the Irish Foster Care Association. Michelle has also worked as a leadership and nonprofit consultant, supporting charities through executive coaching, strategic planning, and organisational culture development.
In addition to her nonprofit experience, Michelle is a qualified psychotherapist, and experienced coach and mentor, helping to develop future leaders in the nonprofit sector. Her board and advisory experience further reflect her commitment to strengthening the social impact space.
Michelle’s leadership is driven by a deep belief that people are at the heart of every organisation. She is dedicated to ensuring bereaved families have access to compassionate and effective support when they need it most.
Leanne is a dedicated and experienced Services Manager with a strong background in administrative support, team leadership, and service delivery. After taking a career break in Switzerland for five years, she returned to Ireland in 2016 and built a successful career in service support and operations management.
She joined Anam Cara in February 2018 as a Services Support Administrator, progressively taking on greater responsibilities. In January 2024, she stepped into the role of Operations Manager, working closely with the Chairperson to lead the organisation. Now, as Services Manager, Leanne oversees the delivery and development of Anam Cara’s vital support services for bereaved families. Before joining Anam Cara, Leanne gained extensive experience in the financial sector, holding roles in commercial banking administration at Bank of America Merrill Lynch and Citi Bank, where she developed strong leadership and management skills.
Leanne holds a Bachelor of Business Studies from the Institute of Technology, Dublin, and is committed to continuous learning and professional growth. Outside of work, she enjoys trail running, cooking, and actively volunteers with her local GAA club.
Elsie joined Anam Cara in May 2025 as Services Support Administrator, bringing a diverse history of working in academia, non-profit leadership, and upper-level administration. With a passion for interpersonal relations, creative projects, and emerging technologies, Elsie looks forward to sustainable growth and the best possible outcomes for those who come to Anam Cara.
Her Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies and Master of Divinity degrees have fostered a lifelong love of learning, accompanied by an enthusiasm for fostering community through the daily struggles and joy of life, honouring diverse backgrounds and identities. In her personal time, Elsie can be found walking her dog, Adelaide, along the South Dublin shores, or engaging in a variety of granny-ish arts and crafts from spinning wool to baking and lacemaking.
Niamh joined Anam Cara in March 2019 and works as the Finance Administrator. She brings over 25 years of bookkeeping and administration experience and has worked in many sectors such as education, HR, marketing and advertising, as well as strong experience in the charity sector.
Niamh has an affinity with the not-for-profit sector and was drawn to working with Anam Cara by the passion and commitment shown by Anam Cara in meeting the needs of bereaved parents across the whole island of Ireland.
Niamh is a qualified Accounting Technician with qualifications in enterprise and development as well as life and business coaching.
Dee joined the Anam Cara team in April 2025 having worked in credit union lending and operations for over 15 years. With a background in volunteer recruitment and operational development within a non-profit environment she is an advocate for volunteerism and strongly believes in the psychology of people helping people. She is an experienced leader who enjoys creating effective operational solutions and building inclusive and collaborative relationships.
As well as being a qualified financial advisor, Dee is a certified life and workplace coach, mindfulness practitioner and mental health first aid instructor, and has facilitated multiple community-based wellness programs, entering the workforce seminars and managing your money workshops.
Dee has a passion for all thing wellness related. When she’s not working, you’ll find her on a yoga mat, on a golf course, or in the park with her much-loved cockapoo Freya.
Michelle is a passionate advocate for bereaved parents and brings a wealth of experience in communications, brand management, fundraising, and community engagement to Anam Cara. With a strong background in marketing and a deep personal commitment to supporting families, she helps drive awareness and connection through thoughtful campaigns and events.
Outside of work, Michelle is a proud mum to her adorable 3-year-old son, Luca, and their equally adorable Cavapoo, Penni.
