Association announces Simon Nugent as new chief

1 October 2015. The representative body of the independently-funded hospital sector, the Independent Hospitals Association of Ireland (IHAI), has announced that Simon Nugent has taken up the role as Director of the organisation. Simon will be responsible for the leadership of the IHAI,
representation of the sector to Government and other stakeholders, provision of advice to member hospitals, and implementing the organisation’s strategy.

Simon has extensive experience leading business representative organisations including five years as CEO of Chambers Ireland.

From 2011 to 2014 Simon was Special Adviser to the Minister for Communications Energy and Natural Resources, Pat Rabbitte T.D.. This role involved policy and communications advice to Minister Rabbitte on many aspects of Government policy during a very challenging period for the Irish State.

Commenting on his appointment Simon said, “I look forward to leading the IHAI. Fixing Ireland’s health system depends on making the best use of all available expertise and infrastructure. I will focus on maximising the scope for partnership and cooperation between private and public sector providers to the benefit of patients.”

Dermot Divilly, Chairman of the IHAI said, “Simon has extensive experience of both the business world and the public sector in Ireland and the EU which makes him an excellent person to lead the IHAI. He has the personal qualities and professional skills to drive the IHAI’s agenda and maintain its position as a leading voice in the health sector. I wish him the best of luck and look forward to working with him going forward.”