Press release
Minister appoints new Chairman of the OPW
Published on
Last updated on
Published on
Last updated on
Mr. John Conlon has been appointed by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform as Chairman of the Office of Public Works (OPW).
John is Assistant Secretary General in the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform with responsibility for the Climate Division. He has responsibility for the oversight of the funding of climate action, capital investment policies and the Department’s climate research and evaluation unit. The Division also advises the Minister and Government on the public expenditure implications of Project Ireland 2040 and NDP delivery.
He was previously an Assistant Secretary General in the Department of Social Protection where his responsibilities included activation and employment support operations and policy, the Finance, Budget and Legislative functions and control operations.
He previously worked in the Departments of Finance and Public Expenditure and Reform where he held a range of roles including sectoral policy in the areas of social welfare and education, press officer and roles in personnel and remuneration division and the Euro Changeover Board. He also worked in the Office of the Ombudsman and with the Commission of Taxation. (2009)
John is looking forward to taking charge of this challenging role in the OPW. “I am delighted to be taking on this important role as Chairperson for the OPW. I am looking forward to leading the organisation into the next phase of its long and proud history. I am excited to bring my skills and experience to the table and make a meaningful impact in this important role whilst learning from my new colleagues along the way.
John is joining the OPW at a time when sustainability, biodiversity, and protecting our island nation from the increased risk of flooding due to climate change are at the forefront of all our decisions. He recognises the strategic importance of supporting the delivery of the Programme for Government. His role will include managing the State’s significant heritage estate and the properties that provide office accommodation for the Civil Service. It will also include a commitment to provide a customer service that is designed to enhance the visitor experience at our sites, and to maintain the OPW’s good working relationships with important client departments and agencies.
He will formally commence his new role on Monday, 22 April 2024.